Self-Cross-Linkable Chitosan–Alginate Complexes Inspired by Mussel Glue Chemistry

Abstract

In this study, mussel-inspired chemistry, based on catechol−amine reactions, was adopted to develop self-crosslinkable chitosan−alginate (Chi−Alg) complexes. To do so, the biopolymers were each substituted with ∼20% catechol groups (ChiC and AlgC), and then four complex combinations (Chi−Alg, ChiC−Alg, Chi−AlgC, ChiC−AlgC) were prepared at the surface and in bulk solution. Based on QCM-D and lap shear adhesion tests, the complex with catechol only on Chi (ChiC−Alg) did not show a significant variation from the control complex (Chi−Alg). Conversely, the complexes with catechol on alginate (Chi−AlgC and ChiC−AlgC) rendered a self-cross-linking property and enhanced cohesive properties.

Cohering Plasma into Adhesive Gel by Natural Biopolymer–Nanoparticle Hybrid Powder for Efficient Hemostasis and Wound Healing

“…17 The positively charged CS can readily interact with the negatively charged SA, resulting in the formation of a stable polyelectrolyte complex gel when mixed in water. 24 In the complexed state, these oppositely charged weak biopolyelectrolytes are held together mainly by electrostatic interactions. However, CS exhibits a low charge density.…”

“…Chitosan (CS) and sodium alginate (SA) are two types of natural polyelectrolyte polysaccharides that have superiorities in biodegradability, biocompatibility, nontoxicity, low-cost as well as wide-availability . The positively charged CS can readily interact with the negatively charged SA, resulting in the formation of a stable polyelectrolyte complex gel when mixed in water . In the complexed state, these oppositely charged weak biopolyelectrolytes are held together mainly by electrostatic interactions.…”