Genipin‐crosslinked chitosan hydrogels: Preliminary evaluation of the in vitro biocompatibility and biodegradation

Genipin-crosslinked chitosan hydrogels have gained attention as promising drug delivery vehicles. To bring them one step closer to clinical applications, this study evaluates the hydrogels' in vitro biocompatibility and biodegradation. Cytotoxicity test on 3T3 fibroblasts shows that cells retain normal adhesive properties high viability gels with 3.1 4.4 mm genipin but not 1.7 genipin. The highest content (4.4 mm) are studied further presence of RAW 264.7 macrophages DC 2.4 dendritic cells. In both cases, cell is preserved interferon-β gene transcription enhanced while over-production five inflammatory cytokines detected, suggesting immune stimulating property potential vaccine carriers. biodegradation monitored efficiently using intrinsic fluorescence upon crosslinking Addition poly (ethylene glycol) form a semi-interpenetrating hydrogel found enhance cytocompatibility delay degradation. Collectively, our findings suggest chitosan-genipin can be considered biocompatible materials, great for applications.