Glyoxylamide-based self-assembly hydrogels for sustained ciprofloxacin delivery

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Biotechnology
• Drug Delivery

Background:

• Peptide-mimics offer versatile platforms for drug delivery applications.
• Developing efficient topical delivery systems for antibiotics like ciprofloxacin (CIP) is crucial for combating bacterial infections.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize glyoxylamide peptide-mimics capable of forming self-assembled hydrogels.
• To evaluate the potential of these hydrogels for topical delivery of ciprofloxacin (CIP).

Main Methods:

• Synthesis of glyoxylamide peptide-mimics.
• Characterization of hydrogel properties (mechanical strength, structure, morphology).
• Assessment of ciprofloxacin loading capacity and release kinetics.
• Evaluation of antibacterial activity and cytotoxicity.

Main Results:

• Glyoxylamide peptide-mimics formed hydrogels with critical gel concentrations of 0.02-0.08% (w/v).
• Hydrogel properties were tunable by modifying N-substituents.
• High loading capacity (40% w/w) and sustained release (>15 days) of CIP were achieved.
• Released CIP retained antibacterial activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria.
• Hydrogels exhibited low toxicity against Cos7 cells.

Conclusions:

• Glyoxylamide peptide-mimics are effective building blocks for self-assembled hydrogels.
• These hydrogels show significant potential for topical ciprofloxacin delivery.
• The developed system offers sustained drug release, maintained bioactivity, and good biocompatibility.