Synthesis and characterization of a new interpenetrated poly(2-hydroxyethylmethacrylate)—gelatin composite polymer

Poly(2-hydroxyethylmethacrylate) [poly(HEMA)] is a widely used biomaterial which does not allow cell adhesion and growth on its surface, limiting its use in biomedical applications in which cell cohesion is detrimental. We have prepared a poly(HEMA)-gelatin composite hydrogel using a sequential interpenetrating polymer network technique. The properties of this material were compared with poly(HEMA) freeze-dried sponges in terms of morphology, mechanical properties and biocompatibility. Moreover, in vivo biocompatibility experiments highlighted the occurrence of cellular interactions on the surface of the poly(HEMA)-gelatin interpenetrating polymer network, which are usually absent when unmodified poly(HEMA) hydrogels are implanted in the same host organism. These tests also showed a progressive gelatin degradation from the surface to the bulk of the poly(HEMA)-gelatin specimens during short-term (7 d) implantation. Finally, in vitro tests confirmed an improved ability of this composite to scaffold for the cells.