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One-Pot Synthesis of Antibacterial and Antioxidant Self-Healing Bioadhesives Using Ugi Four-Component Reactions
Ronak Afshari1, Arpita Roy1, Saumya Jain1
1Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA.
Summary
A novel bioadhesive, UgiGel, was developed using a one-pot synthesis for enhanced wound healing. This self-healing hydrogel exhibits superior adhesion, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties compared to existing treatments.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Polymer Chemistry
- Tissue Engineering
Background:
- Current bioadhesives lack mechanical stability, effective wet tissue adhesion, and inherent antibacterial/antioxidant properties.
- Existing synthesis methods are often multistep, complicating production for biomedical use.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a novel, multifunctional bioadhesive with improved properties.
- To address limitations of current surgical glues and wound dressings.
Main Methods:
- Synthesized UgiGel via a one-pot Ugi four-component reaction (Ugi-4CR) using gelatin, 4-formylphenylboronic acid, gallic acid, and cyclohexyl isocyanide.
- Investigated dynamic boronate ester bond formation for self-healing hydrogel properties.
- Evaluated adhesion, antibacterial activity, antioxidant activity, and biocompatibility (in vitro and in vivo).
Main Results:
- UgiGel demonstrated significantly higher adhesion to porcine skin compared to commercial bioadhesives (139.8 kPa vs. 26.3 kPa and 19.3 kPa).
- Exhibited potent antibacterial activity against Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria and notable antioxidant effects.
- Confirmed excellent in vitro and in vivo biocompatibility and biodegradation over 28 days in rats.
Conclusions:
- UgiGel represents a promising multifunctional bioadhesive for wound sealing and repair.
- Its one-pot synthesis, self-healing, and superior performance offer advantages over current medical adhesives.
