[2PS-059]
우수논문발표상 응모자Preparation and Characterization of In situ-Crosslinkable Hyaluronic Acid–Based Hydrogels for Biomedical Applications
발표자최수아 (충남대학교)
연구책임자허강무 (충남대학교)
Abstract
Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a biocompatible and hydrophilic natural polymer; however, its weak mechanical properties and rapid degradation limit its biomedical applications. In this study, methacrylated hyaluronic acid (HA-MA) and thiolated hyaluronic acid (HA-SH) were synthesized to fabricate in situ–forming hydrogels via photo-induced and Michael addition crosslinking. HA-MA was prepared by reacting HA with methacrylic anhydride, and the degree of substitution was controlled by the feed molar ratio. HA-MA hydrogels were formed by UV irradiation using Irgacure 2959 and characterized by rheological analysis. Frequency sweep tests showed an increase in storage modulus with increasing substitution. Injectable hydrogels were also formed through Michael addition between methacrylate and thiol groups without irradiation, exhibiting shear-thinning and thixotropic behavior. This HA-based hydrogel system provides a tunable and minimally invasive platform for biomedical applications.