Synthesis and properties of novel hydrogels from oxidized pectin crosslinked gelatin for biomedical applications

Gelatin (G) edible films with a new kind of dialdehyde polysaccharide, oxidized pectin (OP) as crosslinking agent are successfully prepared using casting techniques. FTIR and X-ray diffraction studies demonstrate that crosslinking is achieved through the reaction of aldehyde groups of oxidized pectin with the free amino groups in gelatin with a small affectation of the triple helix of gelatin. The qualitative and quantitative data about structures of films were determined by atomic force microscopy. Thermogravimetric analysis reveals that G/OP film has improved thermal stability in comparison with pure gelatin. Examination of the hemolytic potential showed that the obtained hydrogels are non-hemolytic in nature. These hydrogels are also nontoxic and blood-compatible. This kind of hydrogel is expected to be useful in the biomedical field, e.g., as wound dressing.