Genipin-crosslinked chitosan/gelatin blends for biomedical applications

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Polymer Chemistry
• Tissue Engineering

Background:

• Chitosan (CS) and gelatin (G) are biocompatible polymers with potential for biomedical applications.
• Developing effective crosslinking strategies is crucial for enhancing the properties of CS/G blends.
• Genipin is a natural crosslinker that can form stable bonds with CS and G.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of varying CS/G compositions and genipin crosslinking on the physico-chemical and mechanical properties of CS/G blends.
• To evaluate the biocompatibility of these crosslinked blends for potential use in nerve regeneration.
• To determine the optimal blend composition and crosslinking degree for supporting cell adhesion and proliferation.

Main Methods:

• CS/G blends with compositions ranging from 0/100 to 100/0 (w/w) were prepared.
• Genipin (0.5 wt.% and 2.5 wt.%) was used as a crosslinker for the CS/G blends.
• Physico-chemical properties were assessed using infrared analysis, thermogravimetry, contact angle measurements, dissolution, and swelling tests.
• Mechanical properties were evaluated through stress-strain and creep tests.
• Mouse fibroblasts and neuroblastoma cells were used to assess cell adhesion and proliferation on the blend substrates.

Main Results:

• Crosslinking with genipin promoted the formation of amide and tertiary amine bonds.
• Sample stiffness increased with higher genipin content and CS concentration.
• Blend composition and crosslinking influenced mouse fibroblast adhesion and proliferation.
• Crosslinked CS/G blends with 80 wt.% gelatin supported neuroblastoma cell adhesion and proliferation.

Conclusions:

• Genipin crosslinking effectively modifies the properties of CS/G blends.
• The mechanical properties and cell interactions of CS/G blends can be tuned by adjusting composition and crosslinking.
• CS/G blends, particularly those rich in gelatin, show promise for nerve regeneration applications.