Reversible 2D networks of oligo(ε-caprolactone) at the air-water interface

Biomed Mater. 2019 Apr 2;14(3):034103. doi: 10.1088/1748-605X/ab0cef.

Abstract

Hydroxyl terminated oligo(ε-caprolactone) (OCL) monolayers were reversibly cross-linked forming two dimensional networks (2D) at the air-water interface. The equilibrium reaction with glyoxal as the cross-linker is pH-sensitive. Pronounced contraction in the area of the prepared 2D OCL films in dependence of surface pressure and time revealed the process of the reaction. Cross-linking inhibited crystallization and retarded enzymatic degradation of the OCL film. Altering the subphase pH led to a cleavage of the covalent acetal cross-links. The reversibility of the covalent acetal cross-links was proved by observing an identical isotherm as non-cross-linked sample. Besides as model systems, these customizable reversible OCL 2D networks are intended for use as pH responsive drug delivery systems or functionalized cell culture substrates.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Biocompatible Materials / chemistry*
  • Caproates / chemistry*
  • Cross-Linking Reagents / chemistry
  • Crystallization
  • Drug Delivery Systems
  • Glyoxal / chemistry*
  • Hydrogen-Ion Concentration
  • Lactones / chemistry*
  • Lipase / chemistry
  • Microscopy / methods
  • Molecular Structure
  • Polyesters / chemistry
  • Polymers / chemistry
  • Spectrophotometry, Infrared
  • Surface Properties
  • Tissue Engineering / methods
  • Water / chemistry*

Substances

  • Biocompatible Materials
  • Caproates
  • Cross-Linking Reagents
  • Lactones
  • Polyesters
  • Polymers
  • Water
  • Glyoxal
  • caprolactone
  • Lipase