Characteristic of hyaluronic acid derivative films cross-linked by polyethylene glycol of low water content

Abstract

Objective To test the characteristics of hyaluronic acid (HA) derivative cross-linked by polyethylene glycol films of low water content. Methods The cross-linked HA film with 200 μm thickness was got at atmospheric pressure at 25°C for 5 d. After dried, cross-linked films of 10 mm × 10 mm were weighed and immersed in phosphate buffered saline (PBS pH 7.45) at 37°C for 24 h. Then the solution fraction and water content were estimated. Meanwhile, cross-linked HA derivative films were immersed in phosphate buffered saline (PBS: pH 7.45) at 37°C for determined time and then implanted subcutaneously in the back of white rats to test in vitro or in vivo degradation characteristic. Results and Conclusion HA hydrogel cross-linked by polyethylene glycol with water content is as low as 60% and this kind of HA derivative has a slow degradation rate.