Abstract
Konjac glucomannan (KGM) hydrogel has favorable gel-forming abilities, but its insufficient swelling capacity and poor control release characteristics limit its application. Therefore, in this study, oxidized hyaluronic acid (OHA) was used to improve the properties of KGM hydrogel. The influence of OHA on the structure and properties of KGM hydrogels was evaluated. The results show that the swelling capacity and rheological properties of the composite hydrogels increased with OHA concentration, which might be attributed to the hydrogen bond between the KGM and OHA, resulting in a compact three-dimensional gel network structure. Furthermore, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) was efficiently loaded into the KGM/OHA composite hydrogels and liberated in a sustained pattern. The cumulative EGCG release rate of the KGM/OHA hydrogels was enhanced by the increasing addition of OHA. The results show that the release rate of composite hydrogel can be controlled by the content of OHA. These results suggest that OHA has the potential to improve the properties and control release characteristics of KGM hydrogels.
Highlights
Hydrogels are three-dimensional polymer networks connected by cross-linked covalent bonds and weak cohesive forces in the form of hydrogen or ionic bonds [1]
Because the amino group in hydroxylamine hydrochloride can react with the aldehyde group in oxidized hyaluronic acid (OHA), the reaction between hydroxylamine hydrochloride and the aldehyde group can be used to verify whether OHA can be successfully prepared [20]
The content of the aldehyde group in OHA was calculated according to the reaction formula, and the oxidation rate of OHA was 43.8 ± 2.26%, which was consistent with previous Polymers 2022, 14, x FOR PEER REVIErWesearch [21]
Summary
Hydrogels are three-dimensional polymer networks connected by cross-linked covalent bonds and weak cohesive forces in the form of hydrogen or ionic bonds [1]. Due to their excellent biocompatibility, soft texture, and high permeability to small hydrophilic molecules, hydrogels have been attractive candidates for a wide range of applications, such as cartilage scaffolds, drug delivery, and sensors [2]. Most hydrogels have weak stability due to their high water content, which greatly limits their application [4]. This drawback can be overcome by fabricating a “composite or hybrid hydrogel” system. Other substances need to be added to KGM hydrogel to improve its release properties
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
