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Radiopaque, Self-Immolative Poly(benzyl ether) as a Functional X-ray Contrast Agent: Synthesis, Prolonged Visibility,
Geunyoung Choi1, Byeongjun Choi1, Bobby Aditya Darmawan2
1School of Polymer Science and Engineering, Chonnam National University, 77 Yongbong-ro, Buk-gu, Gwangju 61186, Korea.
Biomacromolecules
|April 2, 2024
Summary
A novel self-immolative radiocontrast polymer provides predictable X-ray tracking via controlled degradation. This biodegradable agent, when integrated into polycaprolactone, offers prolonged radiopacity and reinforces the matrix for advanced implantable devices.
Area of Science:
- Polymer Chemistry
- Biomaterials Science
- Radiology
Background:
- Development of advanced radiocontrast agents is crucial for medical imaging.
- Biodegradable polymers offer potential for temporary medical implants.
- Controlling degradation kinetics is key for predictable device performance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To design and characterize a novel self-immolative radiocontrast polymer agent.
- To evaluate the agent's performance when incorporated into a biodegradable matrix.
- To explore its potential for implantable devices and theranostics.
Main Methods:
- Synthesis of a poly(benzyl ether)-based polymer with iodophenyl pendant groups.
- Incorporation of the polymer into a polycaprolactone matrix.
- Assessment of depolymerization, radiopacity, degradation kinetics, and leaching under basic aqueous conditions.
Main Results:
- The polymer agent demonstrated spontaneous depolymerization upon stimulus exposure.
- It provided radiodensity comparable to commercial agents and prolonged radiopacity without leaching.
- The composite exhibited predictable degradation kinetics under basic aqueous conditions, enabling X-ray tracking.
Conclusions:
- The designed self-immolative radiocontrast polymer is a promising material for biodegradable medical applications.
- Its integration into a polycaprolactone matrix allows for controlled degradation and effective X-ray tracking.
- Further advancements could lead to synergistic functions in implantable devices and theranostic systems.
