Semi-interpenetrating network of polyethylene glycol and photocrosslinkable chitosan as an in-situ-forming nerve adhesive.
An ideal adhesive for anastomosis of severed peripheral nerves should tolerate strains imposed on rejoined nerves. We use blends of photocrosslinkable 4-azidobenzoic acid-modified chitosan (Az-C) and polyethylene glycol (PEG) as a new in-situ-forming bioadhesive for anastomosing and stabilizing the injured nerves. Cryo-scanning electron microscopy suggests that the polymer blends form a semi-interpenetrating network (semi-IPN), where PEG interpenetrates the Az-C network and reinforces it. Az-C/PEG semi-IPN gels have higher storage moduli than Az-C gel alone and fibrin glue. Nerves anastomosed with an Az-C/PEG gel tolerate a higher force than those with fibrin glue prior to failure. A series of ex vivo and in vitro cell experiments indicate the Az-C/PEG gels are compatible with nerve tissues and cells. In addition, Az-C/PEG gels release PEG over a prolonged period, providing sustained delivery of PEG, a potential aid for nerve cell preservation through membrane fusion. Az-C/PEG semi-IPN gels are promising bioadhesives for repairing severed peripheral nerves not only because of their improved mechanical properties but also because of their therapeutic potential and tissue compatibility.
College of Pharmacy, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA.
Zohreh
Z
Amoozgar
Todd
T
Rickett
Joonyoung
J
Park
Chad
C
Tuchek
Riyi
R
Shi
Yoon
Y
Yeo
D000818:Animals; D048271:Chitosan / Q000737:chemistry* / Q000528:radiation effects; D003432:Cross-Linking Reagents / Q000737:chemistry* / Q000528:radiation effects; D008027:Light; D008297:Male; D008422:Materials Testing; D011092:Polyethylene Glycols / Q000138:chemical synthesis* / Q000528:radiation effects; D051381:Rats; D017207:Rats, Sprague-Dawley; D020426:Sciatic Neuropathy / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000473:pathology / Q000503:physiopathology*; D014014:Tissue Adhesives / Q000138:chemical synthesis* / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D003432:Cross-Linking Reagents; D014014:Tissue Adhesives; D011092:Polyethylene Glycols; D048271:Chitosan