Effect of pH on the Properties of Hydrogels Cross-Linked via Dynamic Thia-Michael Addition Bonds.

ABSTRACT: Hydrogels cross-linked with dynamic covalent bonds exhibit time-dependent properties, making them an advantageous platform for applications ranging from biomaterials to self-healing networks. However, the relationship between the cross-link exchange kinetics, material properties, and stability of these platforms is not fully understood, especially upon addition of external stimuli. In this work, pH was used as a handle to manipulate cross-link exchange kinetics and control the resulting hydrogel mechanics and stability in a physiologically relevant window. Poly(ethylene glycol)-based hydrogels were cross-linked with a reversible thia-Michael addition reaction in aqueous buffer between pH 3 and pH 7. The rate constants of bond exchange and equilibrium constants were determined for each pH v

SUBMITTER: FitzSimons TM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9011390 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature