Thermally-Induced Shape-Memory Behavior of Degradable Gelatin-Based Networks

Shape-memory hydrogels (SMH) are multifunctional, actively-moving polymers of interest in biomedicine. In loosely crosslinked polymer networks, gelatin chains may form triple helices, which can act as temporary net points SMH, depending on the presence salts. Here, we show programming and initiation shape-memory effect such networks based a thermomechanical process compatible with physiological environment. The SMH were synthesized by reaction glycidylmethacrylated oligo(ethylene glycol) (OEG) α,ω-dithiols varying crosslinker length amount. Triple helicalization is shown directly wide-angle X-ray scattering indirectly via mechanical behavior at different temperatures. ability to helices increased molar mass crosslinker. Hydrogels had storage moduli 0.27–23 kPa Young’s 215–360 4 °C. hydrolytically degradable, full degradation water-soluble products within one week 37 °C pH = 7.4. A thermally-induced demonstrated bending well compression tests, shape recovery excellent shape-recovery rates Rr close 100% observed. future, material presented here could be applied, e.g., self-anchoring devices mechanically resembling extracellular matrix.