A non-covalently cross-linked self-healing hydrogel for drug delivery: characterization, mechanical strength, and anti-cancer potential

• Published in: New journal of chemistry Vol. 48; no. 35; pp. 15670 - 15686
• Main Authors: Jaiswal, Sheetal, Kumar, Sandeep, Yadav, Paramjeet, Pal, Krishtan, Afgan, Shere, Acharya, Arvind, Prakash, Ravi, Maiti, Pralay, Kumar, Rajesh
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Cambridge Royal Society of Chemistry 09.09.2024
• Subjects: Biocompatibility; Chemical synthesis; Crosslinking; Ferric ions; Guar gum; Hydrogels; Hydrogen bonds; Mechanical properties; Rheological properties
• ISSN: 1144-0546; 1369-9261
• DOI: 10.1039/D4NJ02752C

This research article introduced a novel one-pot method for synthesizing hydrogels, utilizing iron ions (Fe 3+ ) and guar gum succinate (GGS) as cross-linkers. These hydrogels were characterized as cross-linked networks, with hydrogen bonds forming a sacrificial network and coordination bonds serving as the primary network. The reversible nature of these networks was attributed to the hydrogels’ exceptional toughness and remarkable self-healing properties. The hydrogel's chemical structure was confirmed through FTIR spectroscopy. XRD analysis highlighted the disruption of the crystalline nature of GGS upon cross-linking with Fe 3+ . By controlling the Fe 3+ concentration, the hydrogels’ mechanical properties were tailored. Rheological measurements demonstrated mechanical and self-healing properties, while swelling studies revealed pH-dependent behavior. In vitro studies showed the hydrogels’ significant anti-proliferative effect against U-87MG (human glioblastoma) cancer cells, while remaining biocompatible with normal cell lines (HEK-293). These results indicated the potential application of these hydrogels in advancing cancer treatment strategies.