Zeolite-Reinforced PVA/Chitosan/Hyaluronic Acid Composite Films as Biocompatible Tissue Patches
Hasan Hüseyin Gülercan1, Seda Genç Şimşek1,2, Kadriye Kızılbey3
1Molecular Biology and Genetics Department, Graduate Schools of Science and Engineering, Yıldız Technical University, Istanbul, Türkiye.
Biopolymers
|July 16, 2026
Summary
Researchers developed novel tissue patches using poly(vinyl alcohol), chitosan, and hyaluronic acid composites with zeolite. Low zeolite concentrations allow tunable flexibility and biocompatibility for tissue engineering.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Tissue Engineering
- Polymer Chemistry
Background:
- Tissue patches are crucial for repairing damaged tissues, requiring specific biocompatibility, mechanical strength, and surface properties.
- Poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA), chitosan (Chi), and hyaluronic acid (HA) are common biomaterials for tissue engineering, but often need modification for optimal performance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and evaluate PVA-Chi-HA composite films reinforced with varying concentrations of zeolite (0-0.5% w/v) as potential tissue patch materials.
- To investigate the impact of zeolite incorporation on the physicochemical, mechanical, and biological properties of the composite films.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of PVA-Chi-HA composite films with different zeolite loadings.
- Characterization of film properties including elastic modulus, water contact angle, swelling behavior, and biodegradation.
- In vitro biological evaluation of cell viability and adhesion on the composite films.
Main Results:
- Zeolite incorporation significantly altered film properties, decreasing elastic modulus and increasing water contact angle while maintaining hydrophilicity.
- Films showed rapid swelling and controlled biodegradation, with over 75% mass loss after 42 days.
- All formulations supported cell viability (>70%) and cell adhesion, confirming biocompatibility.
Conclusions:
- Low-concentration zeolite addition effectively tunes the mechanical, surface, and biological characteristics of PVA-Chi-HA composite films.
- These zeolite-reinforced composites offer a promising multifunctional and customizable platform for tissue engineering applications.
- The developed materials demonstrate potential as advanced tissue patch candidates without compromising biocompatibility.
