Investigating the Lipid-Hydrogel Biomaterial Structure and Self-assembly at the Interface

Abstract

As intricate three-dimensional (3D) polymer networks, hydrogels are composed of hydrophilic polymer chains, maintaining an abundance of water within their structure. Noteworthy for their high biocompatibility, exceptional processability, and an assortment of chemical, physical, and biological attributes, hydrogels emerge as versatile entities. This versatile utility encompasses many applications from regenerative medicine and stem cell therapy as well as to drug and gene delivery. Beyond these fields, polymeric hydrogels have also been used in patches or arrays for transdermal drug delivery within the domains of biomedical and pharmaceutical sciences. In order to further explore these medical applications, I conducted this research in collaboration with Dr. Niroobakhsh, an assistant professor of mechanical engineering and biomedical engineering. Our joint interest centered around exploring the biomedical applications of advanced materials. Our investigation focused on the pivotal impact of Soy Phosphatidylcholine (Soy PC), a compound extensively employed in health and food sectors as an emulsifier, stabilizer, and wetting agent. Its biocompatibility, biodegradability, metabolic activity, and low toxicity relative to synthetic alternatives have made it a preferred option in clinical applications over many years. Due to these advantages, Soy PC holds promise for pharmaceutical use. Based on an extensive review of existing literature, we explored ternary systems involving castor oil, Soy PC, and ethanol/water. This system when coupled with a polymeric hydrogel has been effectively used within liquid-in-liquid 3D printing platforms. This enables the making of resilient intricate constructs, complete with internal nanostructures from aqueous solutions. Although this material system offers substantial printing versatility, apprehensions arise regarding its compatibility for biomedical applications due to potential toxicity associated with the oil component—specifically, oleic acid. Due to this, there is a curiosity to explore the creation and development of a soft material system that is composed of lipids and a biocompatible oil. Our research offers a path towards safer biomedical materials by investigating hydrogels and lipids, notably Soy Phosphatidylcholine. This work holds the potential to revolutionize various biomedical applications, from more efficient drug delivery to regenerative tissue solutions.