Injectable Hybrid Hydrogels, with Cell-Responsive Degradation, for Tumor Resection

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Gastroenterology
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Biocompatible soft materials are crucial for interventional endoscopy, particularly for endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD).
• ESD requires a submucosal fluid cushion (SFC) to lift neoplastic lesions from underlying muscle in organs prone to perforation, like the stomach and intestines.
• Current SFC methods face limitations that this study aims to address.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and characterize an injectable, biodegradable hybrid hydrogel for creating a stable SFC.
• To evaluate the hydrogel's efficacy in facilitating ESD procedures.
• To assess the material's biocompatibility and degradation profile.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis of a polyamidoamine-based hydrogel incorporating breakable silica nanocapsules.
• Incorporation of cleavable disulfide moieties within the hydrogel network for cell-mediated degradation.
• In vivo assessment of hydrogel gelation, SFC formation, volume stability, and degradation in the context of ESD.

Main Results:

• The hybrid hydrogel demonstrated rapid in vivo gelation upon injection.
• It formed a long-lasting, stable SFC, maintaining consistent volume during dissection.
• The material is designed for complete cell-mediated degradation triggered by glutathione, releasing encapsulated biomolecules.

Conclusions:

• The novel hybrid hydrogel effectively forms a stable SFC, addressing key limitations in ESD.
• Its injectable and biodegradable nature, combined with cell-triggered degradation, offers a promising solution for safer tumor resection.
• This material has the potential to improve ESD outcomes and promote post-surgical tissue healing.