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Updated: Nov 29, 2025

The Synthesis of RGD-functionalized Hydrogels as a Tool for Therapeutic Applications
Published on: October 7, 2016
Applications and Functions of γ-Poly-Glutamic Acid and its Derivatives in Medicine
Guoliang Wang1, Qing Liu1, Young M Yang2
1Research and Development Department, Jilin Green Food Engineering Research Institute, Changchun 130022, China.
Background:
γ-Poly-Glutamic Acid (γ-PGA) is a naturally occurring homo-polyamide produced by various strains of Bacillus. It is made from repeating units of L-glutamic acid, D-glutamic acid, or both connected through amide linkages between α-amino and γ-carboxylic acid groups. As a biopolymer substance, the attractive properties of γ-PGA are that it is water-soluble, biodegradable, biocompatible, non-toxic, non-immunogenic, and edible. Therefore, it can be used as a green and environmentally friendly biological material.
Methods:
The review concentrates on the reports revealing the functions and potential use of γ-PGA and its derivatives in medicine.
Results & Discussion:
γ-PGA is described to possess several properties that may be exploited in medicine. The biopolymer reportedly has been successfully applied not only as a metal chelator, drug carrier/ deliverer, and gene vector, but also used safely as a vaccine adjuvant, tissue engineering material, and contrast agent.
Conclusion:
γ-PGA could be potentially considered as a potential biomedical material in the field of medicine.
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