pH-Responsive Biocompatible Nanocomposite Hydrogels for Therapeutic Drug Delivery

The present study reports the formulations of biocompatible nanocomposite hydrogels using chitosan (CH), poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA), oleo polyol, and fumed silica (SiO2) via a free radical polymerization method for anti-cancer drug delivery. Structural, morphological, and mechanical analyses were conducted using FT-IR spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and rheological techniques. The effect of SiO2 concentration on mechanical strength, swelling ratios, morphological, and drug delivery behavior was investigated. The incorporation of SiO2 nanoparticles in hydrogels resulted in a significant enhancement in its properties. MTT assay of human embryonic kidney (HEK-293) and human colon (HCT116) cancer cell lines was conducted for up to 48 h to evaluate biocompatibility and cytotoxicity. These studies confirmed the biocompatible nature of nanocomposite hydrogels. Cisplatin-loaded nanocomposite hydrogels exhibit sustained release as compared to free cisplatin at pH 4.0 an...