Biocompatible Hydrogel for Intra-Articular Implantation Comprising Cationic and Anionic Polymers of Natural Origin: In Vivo Evaluation in a Rabbit Model.

Karina L Bierbrauer,Roxana V Alasino,Dante M Beltramo,Fernando E Barclay,Eduardo M Belotti,Hugo H Ortega

doi:10.3390/polym13244426

Abstract

We describe the functional capability of a cross-linked hydrogel composed of sulfated glycosaminoglycans and a cationic cellulose by conducting trials on experimental animal models using intra-articular implants to treat an articular disease called osteoarthritis. Forty-eight mature New Zealand white rabbits were divided into three experimental groups: A, B, and C. Group A and B underwent unilateral anterior cruciate ligament transection (ACLT) of the right knee. Subsequently, both knees of group A were treated with the injectable formulation under study. Meanwhile, group B was treated with sterile PBS (placebo). The animals of group C were surgically operated in both knees: Commercial hyaluronic acid (HA) was implanted in the left knee, and the formulation under study was implanted in the right knee. After implantation, all specimens underwent several evaluations at 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively. At 6 months, no significant differences were detected between the right and left knees of the different groups. However, significant differences were observed between both knees at 12 months in group C, with less cartilage damage in the right knees implanted with our hydrogel. Therefore, in vivo studies have demonstrated hydrogel safety, superior permanence, and less cartilage damage for long-term follow up 12 months after implantation for the formulation under study compared with commercial HA.

Highlights

As an alternative to what is currently available in the market, we developed and evaluated a hydrogel comprising a combination of sulfated glycosaminoglycans with cationic polymers, chondroitin sulfate, and Polyquaternium-10 (PQ10), which have better stability properties
We used the spectroscopic method of FTIR to evaluate groups that appeared to be involved in the interaction of PQ10 and chondroitin sulfate (CS)
This study demonstrated biological safety at short-term and long-term use of hydrogel

Summary

Introduction

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a disease that involves entire articulations, which is usually prone to structural damage due to changes that occur in synovial liquid properties. There is no definitive cure for OA, its pathogenesis is not entirely clear, and the best strategy to deal with OA is prevention [1]. The recommended management of the symptomatology of knee OA consists of conservative, non-pharmacological strategies in the first instance, the use of pharmacological therapies, and, as a last resort, surgical options [1–3]. The injection of viscosupplementation substances is an option prior to surgery [4]. The main compound used currently is hyaluronic acid (HA), which is presented in different formulations [5,6]

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Conclusion