Semi-interpenetrating networks based on (Meth)acrylate, itaconic acid, and poly(vinyl pyrrolidone) hydrogels for biomedical applications

Abstract

In this study, three series of semi-interpenetrating networks were synthesized based on 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA), 2-hydroxyethyl acrylate (HEA), itaconic acid (IA), and poly(vinyl pyrrolidone) (PVP) as interpenetrating polymer. Syntheses were performed by free radical cross-linking/polymerization reaction. The first series represented hydrogels based on 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate, poly(vinyl pyrrolidone), and itaconic acid, varying of poly(vinyl pyrrolidone) content. The second series of samples were hydrogels based on 2-hydroxyethyl acrylate, poly(vinyl pyrrolidone), and itaconic acid, varying of itaconic acid content. The third series of synthesized samples were based on 2-hydroxyethyl acrylate, poly(vinyl pyrrolidone), and itaconic acid, varying of poly(vinyl pyrrolidone) content. The content of component was varied in order to examine the influence on the structure, pH- and temperature-sensitive swelling-“intelligent” behavior, mechanical properties of hydrogels, as well as antimicrobial and biocompatible potential of hydrogels. Poly(vinyl pyrrolidone) is a linear polymer, which shows satisfactory biocompatibility and hydrophilicity. Itaconic acid gives pH-sensitive-“intelligent” behavior and better hydrophilicity. Hydrogels based on HEMA and HEA show excellent biocompatibility and satisfactory hydrophilicity. All three series of samples showed satisfactory cytocompatibility, as well as the antimicrobial potential tested against most common microbes. The results obtained and presented in this research can contribute to the development of new efficient polymeric biomaterials for biomedical applications.