Using Supramolecular Chemistry To Develop Injectable Hydrogel Composites for Multi-Drug Delivery

Wednesday, June 5, 2024

12:00 PM-2:00 PM

BIOMED Master's Thesis Defense

Title:
Using Supramolecular Chemistry To Develop Injectable Hydrogel Composites for Multi-Drug Delivery

Speaker:
Olivia Jones, Master's Candidate
School of Biomedical Engineering, Science and Health Systems
Drexel University
 
Advisor:
Christopher B. Rodell, PhD
Assistant Professor
School of Biomedical Engineering, Science and Health Systems
Drexel University

Details:
In the field of drug delivery systems, there is a pressing need for innovative solutions that offer injectable delivery, controlled release profiles, and the ability to accommodate multiple drugs. Such advancements could significantly enhance patient adherence to treatment regimens, limit the need for invasive device insertions, and localize treatments to improve efficacy while mitigating off-target side effects. In response, this research sought to engineer a hydrogel-based drug delivery platform utilizing hyaluronic acid (HA) and supramolecular guest-host chemistry.

The research involved the synthesis of materials derived from hyaluronic acid, which, upon exposure to UV light, form a hydrogel matrix. These polymers were subsequently modified with cyclodextrin or adamantane to enable non-covalent interactions. A critical aspect of the project was the optimization of a mechanical fragmentation technique to convert bulk hydrogel material into microgels suitable for injectable delivery.

Comprehensive characterization of the physical and mechanical properties of the resulting granular hydrogels was conducted using fluorescent and confocal imaging techniques, along with extensive rheological measurements. Additionally, the release capacity of the hydrogels for both small molecules and proteins was assessed through four-week release assays.

This work represents a significant step forward in the development of injectable, multi-drug hydrogel delivery systems, offering promise for improved patient outcomes through enhanced treatment adherence, reduced invasiveness, and localized therapeutic efficacy.

Contact Information

Natalia Broz
njb33@drexel.edu