Double network self-healing film based on metal chelation and Schiff-base interaction and its biological activities

Abstract

Here, we report a series of novel anticancer self-healing double-network films. The first network is based on the dynamic interaction between the aldehyde groups on dialdehyde groups-modified poly (ethylene glycol) (DPEG) and amino groups on chitosan (CH), and the second one is the metal coordination-chelation interaction. The double-network films are synthesized and characterized. The spectroscopic data show the formation of double-network films and their properties. The film has the ability to heal the external mechanical cracks by itself. According to the results, the order of the self-healing property is as follows: (CH/DPEG) 15 film > (CH/DPEG) 15-Ca2+ film > (CH/DPEG) 15-Zn2+ film > (CH/DPEG) 15-Cu2+ film. The activity data show that metal chelation interaction causes different influence on antibacterial and anticancer activities of the double-network films. The order is (CH/DPEG) 15-Cu2+ film > (CH/DPEG) 15-Zn2+ film > (CH/DPEG) 15 film > (CH/DPEG) 15-Ca2+ film. This paper provides a novel view on the effects of metal chelation interaction on the film’s self-healing properties and its biological activities. Therefore, the prepared double-network films might be used in cancer treatment in clinical application as anticancer coatings.