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Multifunctional BSA Scaffolds Prepared with a Novel Combination of UV‐Crosslinking Systems
Author(s) -
Rusu Alina Gabriela,
Chiriac Aurica P.,
Nita Loredana Elena,
MititeluTartau Liliana,
Tudorachi Nita,
Ghilan Alina,
Rusu Daniela
Publication year - 2019
Publication title -
macromolecular chemistry and physics
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.57
H-Index - 112
eISSN - 1521-3935
pISSN - 1022-1352
DOI - 10.1002/macp.201900378
Subject(s) - self healing hydrogels , thermogravimetric analysis , chemistry , fourier transform infrared spectroscopy , bovine serum albumin , polymer chemistry , biocompatibility , swelling , thermal stability , kinetics , thermal decomposition , chemical engineering , organic chemistry , chromatography , physics , quantum mechanics , engineering
This study presents the hydrogelation of bovine serum albumin by using a natural‐derived photo‐initiator system based on riboflavin and l ‐arginine that ensures the preparation of biocompatible hydrogels. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy reveals that the synthesis conditions do not induce protein denaturation and confirms the potential UV‐crosslinking mechanism for albumin hydrogels realization. Thermal and morphological characterization indicates the formation of thermodynamically stable hydrogels with interconnected inner structure which presents a riboflavin concentration‐dependent porosity. The evolution of the hydrogel's decomposition products is analyzed by thermogravimetric analysis coupled with Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and mass spectrometry and reveals a degradation pathway characterized by deamination of unreacted amino moieties and peptide NH groups, condensation, decomposition of the condensation products, and oxidation of N‐containing residues. The kinetics and pH‐responsive behavior of hydrogels are investigated by water uptake dynamics revealing a swelling mechanism which can be switched from a less Fickian to a non‐Fickian process by varying the crosslinker concentration. In vivo tests prove the high degree of biocompatibility of the new hydrogels, after oral administration in mice.