Nanodiamond-based injectable hydrogel for sustained growth factor release: Preparation, characterization and in vitro...

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Regenerative Medicine

Background:

• Conventional hydrogels often exhibit burst release of growth factors, limiting therapeutic efficacy.
• Controlling the release kinetics of bioactive molecules from hydrogel carriers is crucial for successful regenerative therapies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and characterize an injectable nanodiamond (ND)-based nanocomposite hydrogel for controlled therapeutic molecule delivery.
• To investigate the potential of NDs as multifunctional carriers for sustained release of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in wound healing applications.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis and characterization of a thermosensitive hydrogel composed of gelatin, chitosan, and NDs.
• Formulation of ND-VEGF complexes to enable sustained release of the growth factor.
• In vitro assessment of hydrogel biocompatibility, including apoptotic gene expression and anti-inflammatory cytokine production.

Main Results:

• The ND-based hydrogel demonstrated improved mechanical properties without compromising thermosensitive gelation.
• In vitro biocompatibility was confirmed through assessment of apoptotic and inflammatory markers.
• The hydrogel facilitated sustained release of VEGF, indicating potential for prolonged therapeutic effects.

Conclusions:

• Nanodiamonds can be effectively integrated into injectable hydrogels to create a biocompatible, thermosensitive platform.
• This novel nanocomposite hydrogel serves as a multifunctional carrier for controlled release of bioactive molecules, enhancing regenerative potential.
• The developed hydrogel system offers a promising strategy for improving drug delivery and therapeutic outcomes in regenerative medicine.