Novel Polymeric Biomaterial Based on Naringenin.

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Polymer Chemistry
• Natural Product Chemistry

Background:

• Plant-derived biomaterials offer eco-friendly alternatives with unique properties.
• Naringenin, a citrus flavonoid, possesses antioxidant and pharmacological activities.
• Polymeric flavonoids may exhibit superior antioxidant and antimicrobial properties over monomers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize poly(naringenin) from naringenin using glycerol diglycide ether (GDE) as a cross-linking agent.
• To characterize the thermal, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties of the synthesized poly(naringenin).
• To evaluate the potential of poly(naringenin) as a pro-ecological material.

Main Methods:

• Polymerization of naringenin with glycerol diglycide ether (GDE).
• Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy to determine the degree of conversion.
• Analysis of thermal stability, antioxidant capacity (ABTS and DPPH radical scavenging), and antimicrobial activity against *Candida albicans*.

Main Results:

• Successful synthesis of poly(naringenin) with an 85% conversion rate.
• Poly(naringenin) demonstrated superior thermal stability and oxidation resistance compared to monomeric naringenin.
• Enhanced free-radical scavenging activity (ABTS and DPPH) and significant antimicrobial activity against *Candida albicans* were observed for poly(naringenin).

Conclusions:

• Poly(naringenin) exhibits enhanced thermal, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties, outperforming its monomeric form.
• The synthesized poly(naringenin) is a promising eco-friendly biomaterial.
• Potential applications include use as a natural stabilizer and antimicrobial additive in polymer compositions.