Structural characterization of calcium alginate matrices by means of mechanical and release tests.

In this paper we have concentrated on the characterization of calcium alginate hydrogels loaded with a model drug (myoglobin) by means of a mechanical approach; in addition, release tests of myoglobin from alginate hydrogels were performed. At a fixed temperature, relaxation tests (mechanical study) were carried out on matrices constituted by different polymer concentrations. The interpretation of the relaxation behavior of the different matrices was conducted using the generalized Maxwell model; as a result of this investigation it was possible to conclude that for polymer concentrations greater than 0.5 g/ 100 mL the matrices behaved as solid materials. In addition, it was observed that the mechanical properties of the matrices increased with polymer concentration. With regard to the release tests, the diffusion coefficient of myoglobin in the matrix in relation to polymer concentrations was determined. The mechanical and release data where then analyzed by Flory's theory and by a modified free-volume theory, respectively, to estimate the network mesh size xi. The comparison between the mesh sizes obtained by the two approaches showed a satisfactory agreement for polymer concentrations greater than 0.5 g/100 mL. It should be noted that the approach proposed here to determine the polymeric network meshes is absolutely general and can be advantageously applied to the characterization of other similar polymeric systems.

Hyaluronan: from biomimetic to industrial business strategy.

Hyaluronan (hyaluronic acid) is a naturally occurring polysaccharide of a linear repeating disaccharide unit consisting of beta-(1-->4)-linked D-glucopyranuronic acid and beta-(1-->3)-linked 2-acetamido-2-deoxy-D-glucopyranose, which is present in extracellular matrices, the synovial fluid of joints, and scaffolding that comprises cartilage. In its mechanism of synthesis, its size, and its physico-chemical properties, hyaluronan is unique amongst other glycosaminoglycans. The network-forming, viscoelastic and its charge characteristics are important to many biochemical properties of living tissues. It is an important pericellular and cell surface constituent; its interaction with other macromolecules such as proteins, participates in regulating cell behavior during numerous morphogenic, restorative, and pathological processes in the body. The knowledge of HA in diseases such as various forms of cancers, arthritis and osteoporosis has led to new impetus in research and development in the preparation of biomaterials for surgical implants and drug conjugates for targeted delivery. A concise and focused review on hyaluronan is timely. This review will cover the following important aspects of hyaluronan: (i) biological functions and synthesis in nature; (ii) current industrial production and potential biosynthetic processes of hyaluronan; (iii) chemical modifications of hyaluronan leading to products of commercial significance; and (iv) and the global market position and manufacturers of hyaluronan.