Physical Hydrogels of Oxidized Polysaccharides and Poly(Vinyl Alcohol) for Wound Dressing Applications

Development and Characterization of Polymeric Films Loaded with Terbinafine for Fungal Infection Treatment

Topical approaches to dermatophytosis have the advantage of targeted therapy and minimal side effects and are patient-friendly. The present study focused on obtaining thin, flexible, and transparent bioadhesive polymeric films loaded with terbinafine hydrochloride (TH), in order to be administered to the skin affected by fungal infection. Polymeric films based on pullulan (P), oxidized pullulan (T-OP), sodium carboxymethylcellulose (NaCMC), and glycerin were obtained by the casting and evaporation technique, and the solubility of the drug was significantly increased by micellar solubilization with Tween-80, thus avoiding the use of organic solvents. Physico-chemical characterization through the FTIR technique and EDX analysis indicates the absence of strong interactions between the drug and the polymer, and the loading efficiency highlights the uniform distribution of the drug. The mechanical properties, bioadhesion, contact angle, and water sorption capacity highlight optimal adhesion parameters on the skin. In vitro studies indicate a prolonged drug release, in the first 300 min, of 80% and 60% for F2_TH and F1_TH, respectively, and the release kinetics follow the Weibull model. Significant antifungal activity was obtained for both polymeric films. The biocompatibility of the ingredients, the gentle technique for obtaining the films, and the results obtained from their analysis represent promise for their applicability in topical antifungal treatment.

Developing and Characterizing a Biocompatible Hydrogel Obtained by Cross-Linking Gelatin with Oxidized Sodium Alginate for Potential Biomedical Applications

The main goal of this research was to create biocompatible hydrogels using gelatin and a double cross-linking technique involving both covalent and ionic bonds to immobilize propolis. The covalent bonds were formed through Schiff base cross-links between protein-free amino groups (NH2) from the lysine residue and aldehyde groups (CHO) produced by oxidizing sodium alginate with NaIO4, while the ionic bonds were achieved using Mg2+ ions. Hydrogel films were obtained by varying the molar ratios of -CHO/-NH2 under different pH conditions (3.5 and 5.5). The presence of aldehyde groups in the oxidized sodium alginate (OSA) was confirmed using FTIR and NMR spectroscopy. The oxidation degree was monitored over 48 h, and the influence of temperature was examined. Results showed that higher -CHO/-NH2 molar ratios led to increased conversion index values of NH2 groups, and a decrease in swelling degree values was observed in mediums with pH values of 5.5 and 7.4. The encapsulation and release efficiency of propolis decreased with an increase in the hydrogel cross-linking degree. UV irradiation enhanced the antioxidant activity of both free and encapsulated propolis. These findings offer valuable insights for the biomedical and pharmaceutical fields into designing biocompatible hydrogels for propolis immobilization, with potential for controlled release.

Physically Cross-Linked PVA Hydrogels as Potential Wound Dressings: How Freezing Conditions and Formulation Composition Define Cryogel Structure and Performance

Objectives: Hydrogels produced using the freeze-thaw method have demonstrated significant potential for wound management applications. However, their production requires precise control over critical factors including freezing temperature and the choice of matrix-forming excipients, for which no consensus on the optimal conditions currently exists. This study aimed to address this gap by evaluating the effects of the above-mentioned variables on cryogel performance. Methods: Mechanical properties, absorption capacity, and microstructure were assessed alongside advanced analyses using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and low-field nuclear magnetic resonance relaxometry (LF TD NMR). Results: The results demonstrated that fully hydrolyzed polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) with a molecular weight above 61,000 g/mol is essential for producing high-performance cryogels. Among the tested formulations, an 8% (w/w) PVA56-98 solution (Mw~195,000; DH = 98.0-98.8%) with 10% (w/w) propylene glycol (PG) provided the best balance of stretchability, durability, and low adhesion. Notably, while -25 °C is often used for cryogel preparation, freezing the gel precursor at -80 °C yielded superior results, producing materials with more open, interconnected structures and enhanced mechanical strength and elasticity-deviating from conventional practices. Conclusions: The designed cryogel prototypes exhibited functional properties comparable to or even surpassing commercial wound dressings, except for absorption capacity, which remained lower. Despite this, the cryogel prototypes demonstrated potential as wound dressings, particularly for use in dry or minimally exuding wounds. All in all, this study provides a comprehensive analysis of the physicochemical and functional properties of PVA cryogels, establishing a strong foundation for the development of advanced wound dressing systems.

Hydrogels Based on Proteins Cross-Linked with Carbonyl Derivatives of Polysaccharides, with Biomedical Applications

Adding carbonyl groups into the hydrogel matrix improves the stability and biocompatibility of the hydrogels, making them suitable for different biomedical applications. In this review article, we will discuss the use of hydrogels based on polysaccharides modified by oxidation, with particular attention paid to the introduction of carbonyl groups. These hydrogels have been developed for several applications in tissue engineering, drug delivery, and wound healing. The review article discusses the mechanism by which oxidized polysaccharides can introduce carbonyl groups, leading to the development of hydrogels through cross-linking with proteins. These hydrogels have tunable mechanical properties and improved biocompatibility. Hydrogels have dynamic properties that make them promising biomaterials for various biomedical applications. This paper comprehensively analyzes hydrogels based on cross-linked proteins with carbonyl groups derived from oxidized polysaccharides, including microparticles, nanoparticles, and films. The applications of these hydrogels in tissue engineering, drug delivery, and wound healing are also discussed.

Metal organic framework-based polymeric hydrogel: A promising drug delivery vehicle for the treatment of breast cancer

The constraints associated with current cancer therapies have inspired scientists to develop advanced, precise, and safe drug delivery methods. These delivery systems boost treatment effectiveness, minimize harm to healthy cells, and combat cancer recurrence. To design advanced drug delivery vehicle with these character, in the present manuscript, we have designed a self-healing and injectable hybrid hydrogel through synergistically interacting metal organic framework, CuBTC with the poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA). This hybrid hydrogel acts as a localized drug delivery system and was used to encapsulate and release the anticancer drug 5-Fluorouracil selectively at the targeted site in response to the physiological pH. The hydrogel was formed through transforming the gaussian coil like matrix of PVA-CuBTC into a three-dimensional network of hydrogel upon the addition of crosslinker; borax. The biocompatible character of the hydrogel was confirmed through cell viability test. The biocompatible hybrid hydrogel then was used to encapsulate and studied for the pH responsive release behavior of the anti-cancer drug, 5-FU. The in vitro cytotoxicity of the drug-loaded hydrogel was evaluated against MCF-7 and HeLa cells. The study confirms that the hybrid hydrogel is effective for targeted and sustained release of anticancer drugs at cancer sites.

Albumin-Based Hydrogel Films Covalently Cross-Linked with Oxidized Gellan with Encapsulated Curcumin for Biomedical Applications

Bovine serum albumin (BSA) hydrogels are non-immunogenic, low-cost, biocompatible, and biodegradable. In order to avoid toxic cross-linking agents, gellan was oxidized with NaIO4 to obtain new functional groups like dialdehydes for protein-based hydrogel cross-linking. The formed dialdehyde groups were highlighted with FT-IR and NMR spectroscopy. This paper aims to investigate hydrogel films for biomedical applications obtained by cross-linking BSA with oxidized gellan (OxG) containing immobilized β-cyclodextrin-curcumin inclusion complex (β-CD-Curc) The β-CD-Curc improved the bioavailability and solubility of Curc and was prepared at a molar ratio of 2:1. The film's structure and morphology were evaluated using FT-IR spectroscopy and SEM. The swelling degree (Q%) values of hydrogel films depend on hydrophilicity and pH, with higher values at pH = 7.4. Additionally, the conversion index of -NH2 groups into Schiff bases increases with an increase in OxG amount. The polymeric matrix provides protection for Curc, is non-cytotoxic, and enhances antioxidant activity. At pH = 5.5, the skin permeability and release efficiency of encapsulated curcumin were higher than at pH = 7.4 because of the interaction of free aldehyde and carboxylic groups from hydrogels with amine groups from proteins present in the skin membrane, resulting in a better film adhesion and more efficient curcumin release.

Functionalization Methods of Starch and Its Derivatives: From Old Limitations to New Possibilities

It has long been known that starch as a raw material is of strategic importance for meeting primarily the nutritional needs of people around the world. Year by year, the demand not only for traditional but also for functional food based on starch and its derivatives is growing. Problems with the availability of petrochemical raw materials, as well as environmental problems with the recycling of post-production waste, make non-food industries also increasingly interested in this biopolymer. Its supporters will point out countless advantages such as wide availability, renewability, and biodegradability. Opponents, in turn, will argue that they will not balance the problems with its processing and storage and poor functional properties. Hence, the race to find new methods to improve starch properties towards multifunctionality is still ongoing. For these reasons, in the presented review, referring to the structure and physicochemical properties of starch, attempts were made to highlight not only the current limitations in its processing but also new possibilities. Attention was paid to progress in the non-selective and selective functionalization of starch to obtain materials with the greatest application potential in the food (resistant starch, dextrins, and maltodextrins) and/or in the non-food industries (hydrophobic and oxidized starch).

Biological importance of arginine: A comprehensive review of the roles in structure, disorder, and functionality of peptides and proteins

Arginine shows Jekyll and Hyde behavior in several respects. It participates in protein folding via ionic and H-bonds and cation-pi interactions; the charge and hydrophobicity of its side chain make it a disorder-promoting amino acid. Its methylation in histones; RNA binding proteins; chaperones regulates several cellular processes. The arginine-centric modifications are important in oncogenesis and as biomarkers in several cardiovascular diseases. The cross-links involving arginine in collagen and cornea are involved in pathogenesis of tissues but have also been useful in tissue engineering and wound-dressing materials. Arginine is a part of active site of several enzymes such as GTPases, peroxidases, and sulfotransferases. Its metabolic importance is obvious as it is involved in production of urea, NO, ornithine and citrulline. It can form unusual functional structures such as molecular tweezers in vitro and sprockets which engage DNA chains as part of histones in vivo. It has been used in design of cell-penetrating peptides as drugs. Arginine has been used as an excipient in both solid and injectable drug formulations; its role in suppressing opalescence due to liquid-liquid phase separation is particularly very promising. It has been known as a suppressor of protein aggregation during protein refolding. It has proved its usefulness in protein bioseparation processes like ion-exchange, hydrophobic and affinity chromatographies. Arginine is an amino acid, whose importance in biological sciences and biotechnology continues to grow in diverse ways.

An extracellular matrix-inspired self-healing composite hydrogel for enhanced platelet-rich plasma-mediated chronic diabetic wound treatment

Diabetes is generally accompanied by difficult-to-heal wounds, which often lead to permanent disability and even death of patients. Because of the abundance of a variety of growth factors, platelet rich plasma (PRP) has been proven to have great clinical potential for diabetic wound treatment. However, how to suppress the explosive release of its active components while realizing adaptability to different wounds remains important for PRP therapy. Here, an injectable, self-healing, and non-specific tissue-adhesive hydrogel formed by oxidized chondroitin sulfate and carboxymethyl chitosan was designed as an encapsulation and delivery platform for PRP. With a dynamic cross-linking structural design, the hydrogel can meet the clinical demands of irregular wounds with controllable gelation and viscoelasticity. Inhibition of PRP enzymolysis as well as sustained release of its growth factors is realized with the hydrogel, enhancing cell proliferation and migration in vitro. Notably, greatly accelerated healing of full thickness wounds of diabetic skins is enabled by promoting the formation of granulation tissues, collagen deposition and angiogenesis as well as reducing inflammation in vivo. This self-healing and extracellular matrix-mimicking hydrogel provides powerful assistance to PRP therapy, enabling its promising applications for the repair and regeneration of diabetic wounds.

Advances in the use of cellulose-based proton exchange membranes in fuel cell technology: A review

Fuel cells are electrochemical, ecologically friendly appliances that transform chemical energy into electricity in a clean, simple, and effective manner. With the advancement of technology in the field of computer science, electronic downsizing, and the ongoing need for mobility, the demand for portable energy sources such as fuel cells has considerably increased. The proton exchange membrane, which is designed to be a good conductor for protons while isolating electrons to move from the anode to the cathode, imprinting them an external circuit, and thus creating electricity, is at the heart of such an energy source. Perfluorosulfonic acid-based (NAFION) membranes, first introduced over 50 years ago, are still the state of the art in the field of fuel cell proton exchange membranes today. However, because of the numerous drawbacks connected with the usage of NAFION membranes, the scientific community has shifted its focus to producing new generation membranes based on natural materials, such as cellulose. Therefore, we believe that a review of the most recent studies on the use of cellulose as a material for proton exchange membranes in fuel cells may be very much appreciated by the scientific community.

Targeted release of soybean peptide from CMC/PVA hydrogels in simulated intestinal fluid and their pharmacokinetics

Carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC)/polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) hydrogels loaded with soybean peptide (SPE) were fabricated via a freeze-thaw method. These hydrogels conquer barriers in simulated gastric fluid (SGF), and then release SPE in simulated intestinal fluid (SIF). The results of in vitro SPE release from these hydrogels showed that in SGF only a little of the SPE released, but in SIF the SPE was completely released. The released SPE had scavenging rates for DPPH and ABTS free radicals of 41.68 and 31.43 %. The pharmacokinetic model of SPE release from the hydrogels in SIF was studied. When the hydrogels are moved from SGF to SIF, the sorption of the shrinkage hydrogel network is entirely controlled by stress-induced relaxations. There are swollen and shrunken regions during SPE release. For SPE release into the SIF, SPE has to be freed from the weak bonds in the swollen regions by changes in the conformation of CMC and PVA. The release rate of SPE was found to be governed by the diffusion and swelling rate of the shrinkage hydrogel network. The Korsmeyer-Peppas equation diffusion exponents (n) for SPE release from the hydrogels are >2.063, indicating a super case II transport. These data demonstrate CMC/PVA hydrogels have potential applications in oral peptide delivery.

Biosorbent Based on Poly(vinyl alcohol)-Tricarboxi-Cellulose Designed to Retain Organic Dyes from Aqueous Media

Methylene Blue, a cationic dye, was retained from aqueous solutions using a novel biosorbent made of poly(vinyl alcohol) reticulated with tricarboxi-cellulose produced via TEMPO oxidation (OxC25). The study of the Methylene Blue biosorption process was performed with an emphasis on operational parameters that may have an impact on it (such as biosorbent concentration, pH of the aqueous media, and temperature). The current study focused on three areas: (i) the physic-chemical characterization of the biosorbent (scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX)); (ii) biosorption data modeling to determine the quantitative characteristic parameters employing three equilibrium isotherms (Langmuir, Freundlich, and Dubinin-Radushkevich-DR); and (iii) the study of temperature influence. The results of the study showed that the Langmuir model provided a good fit for the experimental data of biosorption, realizing a maximum capacity of 806.45 mg/g at 20 °C. The free energy of biosorption (E) evaluated by the DR equation was in the range of 6.48-10.86 KJ/mol. The values of the thermodynamic parameters indicated an endothermic process because the free Gibbs energy ranged from -9.286 KJ/mol to -2.208 KJ/mol and the enthalpy was approximately -71.686 KJ/mol. The results obtained encourage and motivate the further study of this biosorption process by focusing on its kinetic aspects, establishing the biosorption's controlled steps, identifying the mechanism responsible for the retention of textile dyes presented in moderate concentration in aqueous media, and studying the biosorption process in a dynamic regime with a view to applying it to real systems.

Hybrid Hydrogels for Neomycin Delivery: Synergistic Effects of Natural/Synthetic Polymers and Proteins

This paper reports new physical hydrogels obtained by the freezing/thawing method. They include pullulan (PULL) and poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) as polymers, bovine serum albumin (BSA) as protein, and a tripeptide, reduced glutathione (GSH). In addition, a sample containing PULL/PVA and lysozyme was obtained in similar conditions. SEM analysis evidenced the formation of networks with porous structure. The average pore size was found to be between 15.7 μm and 24.5 μm. All samples exhibited viscoelastic behavior typical to networks, the hydrogel strength being influenced by the protein content. Infrared spectroscopy analysis revealed the presence of intermolecular hydrogen bonds and hydrophobic interactions (more pronounced for BSA content between 30% and 70%). The swelling kinetics investigated in buffer solution (pH = 7.4) at 37 °C evidenced a quasi-Fickian diffusion for all samples. The hydrogels were loaded with neomycin trisulfate salt hydrate (taken as a model drug), and the optimum formulations (samples containing 10-30% BSA or 2% lysozyme) proved a sustained drug release over 480 min in simulated physiological conditions. The experimental data were analyzed using different kinetic models in order to investigate the drug release mechanism. Among them, the semi-empirical Korsmeyer-Peppas and Peppas-Sahlin models were suitable to describe in vitro drug release mechanism of neomycin sulfate from the investigated hybrid hydrogels. The structural, viscoelastic, and swelling properties of PULL/PVA/protein hybrid hydrogels are influenced by their composition and preparation conditions, and they represent important factors for in vitro drug release behavior.

Hydrogel Formulations of Antibacterial Pyrazoles Using a Synthesized Polystyrene-Based Cationic Resin as a Gelling Agent

Here, to develop new topical antibacterial formulations to treat staphylococcal infections, two pyrazoles (3c and 4b) previously reported as antibacterial agents, especially against staphylococci, were formulated as hydrogels (R1-HG-3c and R1HG-4b) using a cationic polystyrene-based resin (R1) and here synthetized and characterized as gelling agents. Thanks to the high hydrophilicity, high-level porosity, and excellent swelling capabilities of R1, R1HG-3c and R1HG-4b were achieved with an equilibrium degree of swelling (EDS) of 765% (R1HG-3c) and 675% (R1HG-4b) and equilibrium water content (EWC) of 88% and 87%, respectively. The chemical structure of soaked and dried gels was investigated by PCA-assisted attenuated total reflectance (ATR) Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, while their morphology was investigated by optical microscopy. Weight loss studies were carried out with R1HG-3c and R1HG-4b to investigate their water release profiles and the related kinetics, while their stability was evaluated over time both by monitoring their inversion properties to detect possible impairments of the 3D network and by PCA-assisted ATR-FTIR spectroscopy to detect possible structural changes. The flow and dynamic rheological characterization of the gels was assessed by determining their viscosity vs. shear rate, applying the Cross rheological equation to achieve the curves of shear stress vs. shear rate, and carrying out amplitude and frequency sweep experiments. Finally, their content in NH₃⁺ groups was determined by potentiometric titrations. Due to their favorable physicochemical characteristic and the antibacterial effects of 3c and 4b possibly improved by the cationic R1, the pyrazole-enriched gels reported here could represent new weapons to treat severe skin and wound infections sustained by MDR bacteria of staphylococcal species.

A Self-Forming Hydrogel from a Bactericidal Copolymer: Synthesis, Characterization, Biological Evaluations and Perspective Applications

Objects touched by patients and healthcare workers in hospitals may harbor pathogens, including multi-drug resistant (MDR) staphylococci, enterococci (VRE), Escherichia coli, Acinetobacter, and Pseudomonas species. Medical devices contaminated by these pathogens may also act as a source of severe and difficult-to-treat human infections, thus becoming a critical public health concern requiring urgent resolutions. To this end, we recently reported the bactericidal effects of a cationic copolymer (CP1). Here, aiming at developing a bactericidal formulation possibly to be used either for surfaces disinfection or to treat skin infections, CP1 was formulated as a hydrogel (CP1_1.1-Hgel). Importantly, even if not cross-linked, CP1 formed the gel upon simple dispersion in water, without requiring gelling agents or other additives which could be skin-incompatible or interfere with CP1 bactericidal effects in possible future topical applications. CP1_1.1-Hgel was characterized by attenuated-total-reflectance Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) and UV-Vis spectroscopy, as well as optic and scanning electron microscopy (OM and SEM) to investigate its chemical structure and morphology. Its stability was assessed by monitoring its inversion properties over time at room temperature, while its mechanical characteristics were assessed by rheological experiments. Dose-dependent cytotoxicity studies performed on human fibroblasts for 24 h with gel samples obtained by diluting CP_1.1-Hgel at properly selected concentrations established that the 3D network formation did not significantly affect the cytotoxic profile of CP1. Also, microbiologic investigations carried out on two-fold serial dilutions of CP1-gel confirmed the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) previously reported for the not formulated CP1.Selectivity indices values up to 12 were estimated by the values of LD₅₀ and MICs determined here on gel samples.

Hemostatic Cryogels Based on Oxidized Pullulan/Dopamine with Potential Use as Wound Dressings

The impetus for research into hydrogels based on selectively oxidized polysaccharides has been stimulated by the diversity of potential biomedical applications. Towards the development of a hemostatic wound dressing in this study, we creatively combined the (hemi)acetal and Schiff base bonds to prepare a series of multifunctional cryogels based on dialdehyde pullulan and dopamine. The designed structures were verified by NMR and FTIR spectroscopy. Network parameters and dynamic sorption studies were correlated with environmental scanning microscopy results, thus confirming the successful integration of the two components and the opportunities for finely tuning the structure-properties balance. The viscoelastic parameters (storage and loss moduli, complex and apparent viscosities, zero shear viscosity, yield stress) and the structural recovery capacity after applying a large deformation were determined and discussed. The mechanical stability and hemostatic activity suggest that the optimal combination of selectively oxidized pullulan and dopamine can be a promising toolkit for wound management.

Bioinspired Hydrogels as Platforms for Life-Science Applications: Challenges and Opportunities

Hydrogels, as interconnected networks (polymer mesh; physically, chemically, or dynamic crosslinked networks) incorporating a high amount of water, present structural characteristics similar to soft natural tissue. They enable the diffusion of different molecules (ions, drugs, and grow factors) and have the ability to take over the action of external factors. Their nature provides a wide variety of raw materials and inspiration for functional soft matter obtained by complex mechanisms and hierarchical self-assembly. Over the last decade, many studies focused on developing innovative and high-performance materials, with new or improved functions, by mimicking biological structures at different length scales. Hydrogels with natural or synthetic origin can be engineered as bulk materials, micro- or nanoparticles, patches, membranes, supramolecular pathways, bio-inks, etc. The specific features of hydrogels make them suitable for a wide variety of applications, including tissue engineering scaffolds (repair/regeneration), wound healing, drug delivery carriers, bio-inks, soft robotics, sensors, actuators, catalysis, food safety, and hygiene products. This review is focused on recent advances in the field of bioinspired hydrogels that can serve as platforms for life-science applications. A brief outlook on the actual trends and future directions is also presented.

Recent Advances in Polysaccharide-Based Physical Hydrogels and Their Potential Applications for Biomedical and Wastewater Treatment

Polysaccharides have been widely employed to fabricate hydrogels owing to their intrinsic properties including biocompatibility, biodegradability, sustainability, and easy modification. However, a considerable amount of polysaccharide-based hydrogels are prepared by chemical crosslinking method using organic solvents or toxic crosslinkers. The presence of reaction by-products and residual toxic substances in the obtained materials cause a potential secondary pollution risk and thus severely limited their practical applications. In contrast, polysaccharide-based physical hydrogels are preferred over chemically derived hydrogels and can be used to address existing drawbacks of chemical hydrogels. The polysaccharide chains of such hydrogel are typically crosslinked by dynamic non-covalent bonds, and the co-existence of multiple physical interactions stabilize the hydrogel network. This review focuses on providing a detailed outlook for the design strategies and formation mechanisms of polysaccharide-based physical hydrogels as well as their specific applications in tissue engineering, drug delivery, wound healing, and wastewater treatment. The main preparation principles, future challenges, and potential improvements are also outlined. The authors hope that this review could provide valuable information for the rational fabrication of polysaccharide-based physical hydrogel. The specific research works listed in the review will provide a systematic and solid research basis for the reliable development of polysaccharide-based physical hydrogel. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

New Insights of Scaffolds Based on Hydrogels in Tissue Engineering

In recent years, biomaterials development and characterization for new applications in regenerative medicine or controlled release represent one of the biggest challenges. Tissue engineering is one of the most intensively studied domain where hydrogels are considered optimum applications in the biomedical field. The delicate nature of hydrogels and their low mechanical strength limit their exploitation in tissue engineering. Hence, developing new, stronger, and more stable hydrogels with increased biocompatibility, is essential. However, both natural and synthetic polymers possess many limitations. Hydrogels based on natural polymers offer particularly high biocompatibility and biodegradability, low immunogenicity, excellent cytocompatibility, variable, and controllable solubility. At the same time, they have poor mechanical properties, high production costs, and low reproducibility. Synthetic polymers come to their aid through superior mechanical strength, high reproducibility, reduced costs, and the ability to regulate their composition to improve processes such as hydrolysis or biodegradation over variable periods. The development of hydrogels based on mixtures of synthetic and natural polymers can lead to the optimization of their properties to obtain ideal scaffolds. Also, incorporating different nanoparticles can improve the hydrogel's stability and obtain several biological effects. In this regard, essential oils and drug molecules facilitate the desired biological effect or even produce a synergistic effect. This study's main purpose is to establish the main properties needed to develop sustainable polymeric scaffolds. These scaffolds can be applied in tissue engineering to improve the tissue regeneration process without producing other side effects to the environment.

Fenugreek seed mucilage grafted poly methacrylate pH-responsive hydrogel: A promising tool to enhance the oral bioavailability of methotrexate

This study aimed to develop the Fenugreek seed mucilage-based pH-responsive hydrogel system in order to improve the oral bioavailability of methotrexate (MTX). Fenugreek seed mucilage (FSM) was extracted from Trigonella foenum-graecum seeds. F1-F9 formulations of pH-responsive hydrogels were prepared using various FSM ratios, methacrylic acid (MAA), and methylene bis acrylamide (MBA) via free radical polymerization technique. Swelling behavior and in vitro drug release studies of prepared hydrogels were evaluated. Toxicity studies of prepared hydrogels were performed on normal cells and on Wistar rats (n = 6). Moreover, in vivo pharmacokinetics parameters were studied on albino rabbits. Hydrogels formation was confirmed by FTIR analysis, thermal analysis and SEM studies. The maximum swelling of hydrogel was found to be 384.7% at pH 7.4. MTX-loaded hydrogel showed the controlled release of MTX up to 24 h following Super Case II transport. Prepared hydrogels exhibited no toxicity in normal cells as well as in experimental subjects. MTX loaded hydrogels exhibited less inhibition compared to free MTX on Hela cells. In Vivo studies revealed 7.5-fold improved oral bioavailability of MTX with higher C_max (928 ng/mL). These results indicate that the pH-responsive hydrogel system based on FSM is a promising tool for the controlled delivery of MTX.

Self-Healing Behavior of Polymer/Protein Hybrid Hydrogels

The paper presents the viscoelastic properties of new hybrid hydrogels containing poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA), hydroxypropylcellulose (HPC), bovine serum albumin (BSA) and reduced glutathione (GSH). After heating the mixture at 55 °C, in the presence of GSH, a weak network is formed due to partial BSA unfolding. By applying three successive freezing/thawing cycles, a stable porous network structure with elastic properties is designed, as evidenced by SEM and rheology. The hydrogels exhibit self-healing properties when the samples are cut into two pieces; the intermolecular interactions are reestablished in time and therefore the fragments repair themselves. The effects of the BSA content, loaded deformation and temperature on the self-healing ability of hydrogels are presented and discussed through rheological data. Due to their versatile viscoelastic behavior, the properties of PVA/HPC/BSA hydrogels can be tuned during their preparation in order to achieve suitable biomaterials for targeted applications.

Advances and impact of arginine-based materials in wound healing

In studies on wound-dressing materials, bioactive materials have been developed rapidly to accelerate wound healing. In recent years, scientists have studied arginine as a bioactive component due to its excellent biosafety, antimicrobial properties and therapeutic effects on wound healing. Surprisingly, arginine therapy is also used under specific pathological conditions, such as diabetes and trauma/hemorrhagic shock. Due to the broad utilization of arginine-assisted therapy, we present the unique properties of arginine for healing lesions of damaged tissue and examined multiple arginine-based systems for the application of wound healing. This review shows that arginine-based therapy can be separated in two categories: direct supplemental approaches of free arginine, and indirect approaches based on arginine derivatives in which modified arginine can be released after biodegradation. Using these two pathways, arginine-based therapy may prove to be a promising strategy in the development of wound curative treatments.

Affordable Magnetic Hydrogels Prepared from Biocompatible and Biodegradable Sources

Magnetic hydrogels composed of poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA)/water-soluble tricarboxy cellulose (CO)/magnetic fluids (MFs) have been prepared by a freeze-thaw cycle technique. The system designed here combines the renewability and biocompatibility aspects of PVA and CO, as well as the magnetic properties of MFs, thereby offering special properties to the final product with potential applications in medicine. In the first step, the water-soluble CO is synthesized using a one-shot oxidation procedure and then the aqueous solutions of CO are mixed with PVA solutions and magnetic fluids in the absence of any additional cross-linking agent. The magnetic hydrogels were thoroughly investigated by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), magnetometry (VSM), and thermogravimetric analysis. The morphological results show an excellent distribution of magnetic particles and CO inside the PVA matrix. The VSM results show that the magnetic hydrogels possess superparamagnetic properties.

A call for action to the biomaterial community to tackle antimicrobial resistance

The global surge of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a major concern for public health and proving to be a key challenge in modern disease treatment, requiring action plans at all levels. Microorganisms regularly and rapidly acquire resistance to antibiotic treatments and new drugs are continuously required. However, the inherent cost and risk to develop such molecules has resulted in a drying of the pipeline with very few compounds currently in development. Over the last two decades, efforts have been made to tackle the main sources of AMR. Nevertheless, these require the involvement of large governmental bodies, further increasing the complexity of the problem. As a group with a long innovation history, the biomaterials community is perfectly situated to push forward novel antimicrobial technologies to combat AMR. Although this involvement has been felt, it is necessary to ensure that the field offers a united front with special focus in areas that will facilitate the development and implementation of such systems. This paper reviews state of the art biomaterials strategies striving to limit AMR. Promising broad-spectrum antimicrobials and device modifications are showcased through two case studies for different applications, namely topical and implantables, demonstrating the potential for a highly efficacious physical and chemical approach. Finally, a critical review on barriers and limitations of these methods has been developed to provide a list of short and long-term focus areas in order to ensure the full potential of the biomaterials community is directed to helping tackle the AMR pandemic.

Hydrogel Based on Tricarboxi-Cellulose and Poly(Vinyl Alcohol) Used as Biosorbent for Cobalt Ions Retention

A biomaterial based on poly(vinyl alcohol) reticulated with tricarboxi-cellulose obtained by TEMPO oxidation (OxC25) was used as a new biosorbent for Co(II) ions retention from aqueous solutions. The biosorption process of Co(II) ions was studied while mainly considering the operational factors that can influence it (i.e., biosorbent concentration, pH of the aqueous media, temperature and contact time of the phases). The maximum adsorption capacity was 181.82 mg/g, with the biosorption well fitted by the Langmuir model. The kinetic modeling of the biosorption process was based on certain models: Lagergreen (pseudo first order model), Ho (pseudo second order model), Elovich (heterogeneous biosorbent model), Webber-Morris (intraparticle diffusion model) and McKay (film diffusion model). The corresponding kinetic model suggests that this biosorption process followed a pseudo-second order kinetic model and was developed in two controlled steps beginning with film diffusion and followed by intraparticles diffusion.

Hydrogel Films Based on Chitosan and Oxidized Carboxymethylcellulose Optimized for the Controlled Release of Curcumin with Applications in Treating Dermatological Conditions

Cross-linked chitosan (CS) films with aldehyde groups obtained by oxidation of carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) with NaIO4 were prepared using different molar ratios between the CHO groups from oxidized carboxymethyl cellulose (CMCOx) and NH2 groups from CS (from 0.25:1 to 2:1). Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy demonstrated the aldehyde groups' presence in the CMCOx. The maximum oxidation degree was 22.9%. In the hydrogel, the amino groups' conversion index value increased when the -CHO/-NH2 molar ratio, cross-linking temperature, and time increased, while the swelling degree values decreased. The hydrogel films were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and FTIR analysis. The curcumin encapsulation efficiency decreases from 56.74% to 16.88% when the cross-linking degree increases. The immobilized curcumin release efficiency (REf%) and skin membrane permeability were evaluated in vitro in two different pH solutions using a Franz diffusion cell, and it was found to decrease when the molar ratio -CH=O/NH2 increases. The curcumin REf% in the receptor compartment was higher at pH = 7.4 (18%- for the sample with a molar ratio of 0.25:1) than at pH = 5.5 (16.5%). The curcumin absorption in the skin membrane at pH = 5.5 (47%) was more intense than at pH = 7.4 (8.6%). The curcumin-loaded films' antioxidant activity was improved due to the CS presence.

Insights on Cellulose Research in the Last Two Decades in Romania

In the current global context, cellulose fulfills those characteristics that give it clear advantages over synthetic fibers, having a huge potential for substituting fossil-based materials which are polluting and harmful to ecosystems. Research conducted in most laboratories around the world in the field of cellulose is overwhelmingly aimed at industrial needs because features such as renewability and low cost are the most important attributes for economic success. In this global effort, Romanian researchers contribute through achievements that are briefly reviewed in this paper. These refer to the main achievements reported after 2000 in the field of cellulose characterization and cellulose functionalization, as well as the main areas where cellulose-based materials were applied.

HA/MgO nanocrystal-based hybrid hydrogel with high mechanical strength and osteoinductive potential for bone reconstruction in diabetic rats

Bone repair and regeneration processes are markedly impaired in diabetes mellitus (DM). Intervening approaches similar to those developed for normal healing conditions have been adopted to combat DM-associated bone regeneration. However, limited outcomes were achieved for these approaches. Hence, together with osteoconductive hydroxyapatite (HA) nanocrystals, osteoinductive magnesium oxide (MgO) nanocrystals were uniformly mounted into the network matrix of an organic hydrogel composed of cysteine-modified γ-polyglutamic acid (PGA-Cys) to construct a hybrid and rough hydrogel scaffold. It was hypothesized that the HA/MgO nanocrystal hybrid hydrogel (HA/MgO-H) scaffold can significantly promote bone repair in DM rats via the controlled release of Mg²⁺. The HA/MgO-H scaffold exhibited a sponge-like morphology with porous 3D networks inside it and displayed higher mechanical strength than a PGA-Cys scaffold. Meanwhile, the HA/MgO-H scaffold gradually formed a tough hydrogel with G' of more than 1000 Pa after hydration, and its high hydration swelling ratio was still retained. Moreover, after the chemical degradation of the dispersed MgO nanocrystals, slow release of Mg²⁺ from the hydrogel matrix was achieved for up to 8 weeks because of the chelation between Mg²⁺ and the carboxyl groups of PGA-Cys. In vitro cell studies showed that the HA/MgO-H scaffold could not only effectively promote the migration and proliferation of BMSCs but could also induce osteogenic differentiation. Moreover, in the 8th week after implanting the HA/MgO-H scaffold into femur bone defect zones of DM rats, more effective bone repair was presented by micro-CT imaging. The bone mineral density (397.22 ± 16.36 mg cm^-3), trabecular thickness (0.48 ± 0.07 mm), and bone tissue volume/total tissue volume (79.37 ± 7.96%) in the HA/MgO-H group were significantly higher than those in the other groups. Moreover, higher expression of COL-I and OCN after treatment with HA/MgO-H was also displayed. The bone repair mechanism of the HA/MgO-H scaffold was highly associated with reduced infiltration of pro-inflammatory macrophages (CD80⁺) and higher angiogenesis (CD31⁺). Collectively, the HA/MgO-H scaffold without the usage of bioactive factors may be a promising biomaterial to accelerate bone defect healing under diabetes mellitus.

Cellulose-Based Hydrogels as Sustained Drug-Delivery Systems

Hydrogels, three-dimensional (3D) polymer networks, present unique properties, like biocompatibility, biodegradability, tunable mechanical properties, sensitivity to various stimuli, the capacity to encapsulate different therapeutic agents, and the ability of controlled release of the drugs. All these characteristics make hydrogels important candidates for diverse biomedical applications, one of them being drug delivery. The recent achievements of hydrogels as safe transport systems, with desired therapeutic effects and with minimum side effects, brought outstanding improvements in this area. Moreover, results from the utilization of hydrogels as target therapy strategies obtained in clinical trials are very encouraging for future applications. In this regard, the review summarizes the general concepts related to the types of hydrogel delivery systems, their properties, the main release mechanisms, and the administration pathways at different levels (oral, dermal, ocular, nasal, gastrointestinal tract, vaginal, and cancer therapy). After a general presentation, the review is focused on recent advances in the design, preparation and applications of innovative cellulose-based hydrogels in controlled drug delivery.

Diffusion and Controlled Release in Physically Crosslinked Poly (Vinyl Alcohol)/Iota-Carrageenan Hydrogel Blends

This paper reports the obtaining of poly (vinyl alcohol) and i-carrageenan blend hydrogels by physical crosslinking (consecutive freeze-thaw cycles). The two polymers were completely miscible in the weight ratio interval used in this study, as determined by solution viscometry data. Strong interactions through hydrogen bonding and forming of mixed interpolymer crystalline domains were observed, which are responsible for the formation of stable drug release-tunable matrices. The release profiles of three model antibiotic drugs (amoxicillin, tetracycline hydrochloride, and gentamicin sulfate) were assessed in a pH interval between 3 and 7.3. They were found to be strongly dependent on the drug chemistry, mesh size of the hydrogels, swelling mechanism, and pH of the release medium. A decrease of up to 40% in the release rates and up to 10% in the diffusion coefficients of the model drugs was registered with the increase in i-carrageenan content.

Design and Preparation of New Multifunctional Hydrogels Based on Chitosan/Acrylic Polymers for Drug Delivery and Wound Dressing Applications

The dynamic evolution of materials with medical applications, particularly for drug delivery and wound dressing applications, gives impetus to design new proposed materials, among which, hydrogels represent a promising, powerful tool. In this context, multifunctional hydrogels have been obtained from chemically modified chitosan and acrylic polymers as cross-linkers, followed by subsequent conjugation with arginine. The hydrogels were finely tuned considering the variation of the synthetic monomer and the preparation conditions. The advantage of using both natural and synthetic polymers allowed porous networks with superabsorbent behavior, associated with a non-Fickian swelling mechanism. The in vitro release profiles for ibuprofen and the corresponding kinetics were studied, and the results revealed a swelling-controlled release. The biodegradability studies in the presence of lysozyme, along with the hemostatic evaluation and the induced fibroblast and stem cell proliferation, have shown that the prepared hydrogels exhibit characteristics that make them suitable for local drug delivery and wound dressing.

New Developments in Medical Applications of Hybrid Hydrogels Containing Natural Polymers

New trends in biomedical applications of the hybrid polymeric hydrogels, obtained by combining natural polymers with synthetic ones, have been reviewed. Homopolysaccharides, heteropolysaccharides, as well as polypeptides, proteins and nucleic acids, are presented from the point of view of their ability to form hydrogels with synthetic polymers, the preparation procedures for polymeric organic hybrid hydrogels, general physico-chemical properties and main biomedical applications (i.e., tissue engineering, wound dressing, drug delivery, etc.).

Recyclable Polymer-Supported N-Hydroxyphthalimide Catalysts for Selective Oxidation of Pullulan

This paper proposes a convenient route to oxidize the –CH₂–OH groups in the water-soluble pullulan, using a new catalytic polymer-supported N-hydroxyphthalimide (NHPI) immobilized on polystyrene. The protocol involves the presence of sodium hypochlorite and sodium bromide. The conversion is possible at room temperature, atmospheric pressure, and pH = 10. The characterization of both the catalysts and oxidized pullulan was done using NMR and FTIR methods. Using polyelectrolyte titration with end-point indication by means of a particle-charge detector (PCD), we were able to assess the degree of electrokinetic charge in all oxidized samples as a consequence of the conversion of the –CH₂–OH group into –COOH moieties. The possibility of recovery and recycling of the polymer-supported NHPI catalyst was tested for up to four cycles, since the morphological analyses performed on the catalysts using SEM revealed no significant changes.