Synthesis of thermally and pH-responsive poly(2-(dimethylamino)ethyl methacrylate)-based hydrogel reinforced with cellulose nanocrystals for sustained drug release

Author(s)

de Avila Goncalves, Sayeny ; da Fonseca, Jessica Heline Lopes ; dAvila, Marcos Akira ; Vieira, Ronierik Pioli

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: International Journal of Biological Macromolecules; v. 277, p. 13-pg., 2024-08-07.

Abstract

Hydrogels are widely employed in biomedical applications due to their high swelling potential, tailored mechanical properties, biocompatibility, and ability to incorporate drugs to modify their release behavior. This study explored the synthesis of dual stimuli-responsive composite hydrogels by combining poly(2-(dimethylamino)ethyl methacrylate) (PDMAEMA) with 4, 8, and 12 % (w/w) w /w) of cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) through in-situ free-radical polymerization, modifying their properties for topical anti-inflammatory release. Although PDMAEMA-based hydrogels have been known for their responsiveness to pH and temperature stimuli, which are useful for modulating the release profile of drugs, their use as a matrix for anti-inflammatory topical applications remains unexplored. Thus, a comprehensive analysis of CNC concentration's impact on PDMAEMA-based hydrogel structure and physicochemical properties is provided. The incorporation of ibuprofen as an antiinflammatory model was assessed, providing insights into the potential of these composite hydrogels for sustained drug delivery applications. Overall, the hydrogels exhibited homogenous CNC dispersion, with gel fraction higher than 70 % and ibuprofen load higher than 90 %. The rise in CNC concentration led to an increase hydrogel stiffness. Finally, the CNC incorporation also modified the ibuprofen release to a more sustained profile, following the Peppas-Sahlin model, which may be attractive for developing pharmaceutical devices for different therapeutical scenarios. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 22/02728-0 - Development of films and hydrogels containing terpenes or derivative oligomers for active packaging and multifunctional medical devices applications
• Grantee: Roniérik Pioli Vieira
• Support Opportunities: Research Grants - Initial Project