[3PS-077]
Design and Evaluation of Dexamethasone-conjugated Glycol Chitosan Thermogel for Otoprotection Against Radiation Injury
발표자레티푹 (충남대학교)
연구책임자허강무 (충남대학교)
Abstract
In this study, dexamethasone (DEX) was conjugated to hexanoyl glycol chitosan (HGC), yielding a thermoresponsive in situ hydrogel for localized drug delivery to the middle ear. This platform aim to improve site-specific therapeutic efficacy and reducing dosing frequency. DEX conjugated HGC with varying drug ratios was prepared, and its physiochemical properties, including gelation behavior, injectability, degradability, and in vitro release behavior, were systemically investigated. In a rat model, a single intratympanic administation of DEX prodrug thermogel offered significant protection against radiation-induced mucosal damage, maintaining a mucosal thickness comparable to normal controls. These findings highlight the potential of this platform as a promising therapeutic strategy for managing middle ear injuries in patients undergoing radiotherapy for head and neck cancer.