Polyphosphoramidate Glycohydrogels with Biorecognition Properties and Potential Antibacterial Activity.
Zornica Todorova1,2, Oyundari Tumurbaatar1,2, Violeta Mitova1
1Institute of Polymers, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 1113 Sofia, Bulgaria.
Molecules (Basel, Switzerland)
|August 14, 2025
Summary
A novel biodegradable polyphosphoramidate glycohydrogel (PPAGHGel) was synthesized for biomedical applications. This non-toxic hydrogel exhibits excellent biocompatibility, antibacterial properties, and potential for biosensors, drug delivery, and wound dressings.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Biomedical Engineering
- Polymer Chemistry
Background:
- Development of advanced hydrogels for biomedical applications is crucial.
- Biodegradable and non-toxic materials are highly sought after for tissue engineering and drug delivery.
Purpose of the Study:
- To synthesize and characterize a novel biodegradable and non-toxic polyphosphoramidate glycohydrogel (PPAGHGel).
- To evaluate the hydrogel's properties for potential applications in biosensing, drug delivery, and wound healing.
Main Methods:
- Preparation of PPAGHGel via crosslinking of polyphosphoramidate glycoconjugate (PPAG) with hexamethylene diisocyanate (HMDI).
- Characterization of hydrogel properties including gel fraction, swelling degree, and mechanical properties.
- Degradation studies using alkaline phosphatase and hydrolytic conditions.
- Binding studies with Concanavalin A lectin.
- Silver nanoparticle stabilization and characterization.
- Morphological analysis using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM).
- Cytotoxicity, cell adhesion, and antibacterial activity tests.
Main Results:
- The synthesized PPAGHGel demonstrated a high gel fraction (83%) and swelling degree (1426 ± 98%).
- The hydrogel showed significant degradation by alkaline phosphatase in 19 days and 52% hydrolytic degradation.
- PPAGHGel effectively bound 92% of Concanavalin A and stabilized silver nanoparticles.
- SEM revealed a porous structure with capillary channels suitable for various applications.
- The hydrogel exhibited excellent biocompatibility, non-adhesive properties, and significant antibacterial activity.
Conclusions:
- The novel PPAGHGel is a promising biodegradable and non-toxic material for biomedical applications.
- Its unique properties make it suitable for biosensors, drug delivery systems, and wound dressings.
- The hydrogel's biocompatibility and antibacterial activity further enhance its therapeutic potential.
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