Synthesis and morphological insight of new biocompatible smart hydrogels

We present a first report for developing stimulus responsive hydrogels via free radical aqueous polymerization technique using Acrylic acid (AAc), methacrylic acid (MAAc) and diethylaminoethyl methacrylate (DEAEMA). The morphological aspects of poly(AAc-co-DEAEMA) (pAcD) and poly(MAAc-co-DEAEMA) (pMcD) were investigated to delineate the relevant mechanism of hydrogel formation for better understanding of their mechanical behaviour. The formulated hydrogels were found to have a structural framework comprising inter-connected nanogels and continuous outer skin with macroporous interiors. An abrupt increase in the peak intensities specific to the polymer and a simultaneous decrease in the water related peaks in the attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectra exhibited the phenomenon of phase separation, whereas peaks of proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1HNMR) revealed hydrogen bonding and electrolytic complexation between the monomers. Biocompatibility is the hallmark for any drug carrier and was evaluated by both in vitro and in vivo testing. Administration of the prepared hydrogels to rat models did not cause any significant affect on the vital organs.