Cytocompatibility evaluation in cell-culture systems of chemically crosslinked chitosan/PVA hydrogels

In the present study we report the preparation, characterization and cytocompatibility of novel polymeric systems based on blends of chitosan and poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) and chemically crosslinked by glutaraldehyde for biomedical applications. The structure of the hydrogels was characterized through Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and their swelling behavior was investigated as preliminary in vitro test. Bioactivity, cytotoxicity and cell viability were assessed via MTT assay with 2 cell cultures and cell spreading-adhesion analysis. Moreover, the cell viability and potential biocompatibility were assessed by the secretion of nitric oxide by activated macrophages with gamma interferon (IFN-γ) cytokine and lipopolysaccharide (LPS). It was found that by increasing the chitosan to PVA ratio the swelling behavior was significantly altered. In addition, all tested hydrogels have clearly presented adequate cell viability, non-toxicity and suitable properties which can be tailored for prospective use in tissue engineering.