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Advance in Composite Gels
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Advance in Composite Gels

A special issue of Gels (ISSN 2310-2861).

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (30 May 2022) | Viewed by 79980

Printed Edition Available!
A printed edition of this Special Issue is available here.

Special Issue Editor

Dr. Hiroyuki Takeno

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
1. Division of Molecular Science, Graduate School of Science and Technology, Gunma University, Gunma 376-8515, Japan
2. Gunma University Center for Food Science and Wellness, Gunma 371-8510, Japan
Interests: composite gels; small-angle scattering analysis; food gels; gel actuator
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Generally, polymer gels prepared by a conventional method are mechanically weak and brittle. To overcome their drawbacks, various composite gels have been developed. For example, the incorporation of nanofillers such as inorganic nanoparticles or nanofibers into polymer gels allows enhancement of mechanical performance. Advanced composite gels exhibit unique properties, such as stimuli-responsive properties, self-healing, excellent electrochemical properties, as well as excellent mechanical properties. Composite gels with unique functionalities offer potential applications in various fields, such as electrochemistry, cosmetics, biomedical tissue engineering, sensors, drug delivery systems, and soft actuators. However, the fabrication of composite gels with desirable functionalities remains a challenging problem. 

This Special Issue focuses on recent research and advances in composite gels, such as polymer–inorganic composite gels, polymer–nanofiber composite gels, bio-based composite gels, and composite ion gels. Additionally, we welcome contributions regarding the structural analysis of composite gels, modeling, and simulation. 

Prof. Dr. Hiroyuki Takeno
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Gels is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2600 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • nanocomposite hydrogels
  • bio-based composite hydrogels
  • organic–inorganic composite hydrogels

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Published Papers (23 papers)

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Editorial

Jump to: Research, Review

2 pages, 196 KiB  
Editorial
Editorial on the Special Issue “Advances in Composite Gels”
by Hiroyuki Takeno
Gels 2023, 9(1), 46; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels9010046 - 06 Jan 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1199
Abstract
Polymer gels are soft materials composed of a large amount of solvent (water, organic solvent, and ionic liquid) and a polymer, and they are constructed using a three-dimensional network [...] Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advance in Composite Gels)

Research

Jump to: Editorial, Review

12 pages, 2502 KiB  
Article
2D Materials (WS2, MoS2, MoSe2) Enhanced Polyacrylamide Gels for Multifunctional Applications
by Bengü Özuğur Uysal, Şeyma Nayır, Melike Açba, Betül Çıtır, Sümeyye Durmaz, Şevval Koçoğlu, Ekrem Yıldız and Önder Pekcan
Gels 2022, 8(8), 465; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels8080465 - 25 Jul 2022
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2060
Abstract
Multifunctional polymer composite gels have attracted attention because of their high thermal stability, conductivity, mechanical properties, and fast optical response. To enable the simultaneous incorporation of all these different functions into composite gels, the best doping material alternatives are two-dimensional (2D) materials, especially [...] Read more.
Multifunctional polymer composite gels have attracted attention because of their high thermal stability, conductivity, mechanical properties, and fast optical response. To enable the simultaneous incorporation of all these different functions into composite gels, the best doping material alternatives are two-dimensional (2D) materials, especially transition metal dichalcogenides (TMD), which have been used in so many applications recently, such as energy storage units, opto-electronic devices and catalysis. They have the capacity to regulate optical, electronic and mechanical properties of basic molecular hydrogels when incorporated into them. In this study, 2D materials (WS2, MoS2 and MoSe2)-doped polyacrylamide (PAAm) gels were prepared via the free radical crosslinking copolymerization technique at room temperature. The gelation process and amount of the gels were investigated depending on the optical properties and band gap energies. Band gap energies of composite gels containing different amounts of TMD were calculated and found to be in the range of 2.48–2.84 eV, which is the characteristic band gap energy range of promising semiconductors. Our results revealed that the microgel growth mechanism and gel point of PAAm composite incorporated with 2D materials can be significantly tailored by the amount of 2D materials. Furthermore, tunable band gap energies of these composite gels are crucial for many applications such as biosensors, cartilage repair, drug delivery, tissue regeneration, wound dressing. Therefore, our study will contribute to the understanding of the correlation between the optical and electronic properties of such composite gels and will help to increase the usage areas so as to obtain multifunctional composite gels. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advance in Composite Gels)
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11 pages, 2134 KiB  
Article
Preparation of Various Nanomaterials via Controlled Gelation of a Hydrophilic Polymer Bearing Metal-Coordination Units with Metal Ions
by Daisuke Nagai, Naoki Isobe, Tatsushi Inoue, Shusuke Okamoto, Yasuyuki Maki and Takeshi Yamanobe
Gels 2022, 8(7), 435; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels8070435 - 11 Jul 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2589
Abstract
We investigated the gelation of a hydrophilic polymer with metal-coordination units (HPMC) and metal ions (PdII or AuIII). Gelation proceeded by addition of an HPMC solution in N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP) to a metal ion aqueous solution. An increase in the [...] Read more.
We investigated the gelation of a hydrophilic polymer with metal-coordination units (HPMC) and metal ions (PdII or AuIII). Gelation proceeded by addition of an HPMC solution in N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP) to a metal ion aqueous solution. An increase in the composition ratio of the metal-coordination units from 10 mol% to 34 mol% (HPMC-34) increased the cross-linking rate with AuIII. Cross-linking immediately occurred after dropwise addition of an HPMC-34 solution to the AuIII solution, generating the separation between the phases of HPMC-34 and AuIII. The cross-linking of AuIII proceeded from the surface to the inside of the HPMC-34 droplets, affording spherical gels. In contrast, a decrease in the ratio of metal-coordination units from 10 mol% to 4 mol% (HPMC-4) decreased the PdII cross-linking rate. The cross-linking occurred gradually and the gels extended to the bottom of the vessel, forming fibrous gels. On the basis of the mechanism for the formation of gels with different morphologies, the gelation of HPMC-34 and AuIII provided nanosheets via gelation at the interface between the AuIII solution and the HPMC-34 solution. The gelation of HPMC-4 and PdII afforded nanofibers by a facile method, i.e., dropwise addition of the HPMC-4 solution to the PdII solution. These results demonstrated that changing the composition ratio of the metal-coordination units in HPMC can control the gelation behavior, resulting in different types of nanomaterials. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advance in Composite Gels)
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15 pages, 3655 KiB  
Article
Modulation of the Structure and Stability of Novel Camel Lens Alpha-Crystallin by pH and Thermal Stress
by Ajamaluddin Malik, Javed Masood Khan, Abdullah S. Alhomida and Mohammad Shamsul Ola
Gels 2022, 8(5), 273; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels8050273 - 27 Apr 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1726
Abstract
Alpha-crystallin protein performs structural and chaperone functions in the lens and comprises alphaA and alphaB subunits at a molar ratio of 3:1. The highly complex alpha-crystallin structure challenges structural biologists because of its large dynamic quaternary structure (300–1000 kDa). Camel lens alpha-crystallin is [...] Read more.
Alpha-crystallin protein performs structural and chaperone functions in the lens and comprises alphaA and alphaB subunits at a molar ratio of 3:1. The highly complex alpha-crystallin structure challenges structural biologists because of its large dynamic quaternary structure (300–1000 kDa). Camel lens alpha-crystallin is a poorly characterized molecular chaperone, and the alphaB subunit possesses a novel extension at the N-terminal domain. We purified camel lens alpha-crystallin using size exclusion chromatography, and the purity was analyzed by gradient (4–12%) sodium dodecyl sulfate–polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Alpha-crystallin was equilibrated in the pH range of 1.0 to 7.5. Subsequently, thermal stress (20–94 °C) was applied to the alpha-crystallin samples, and changes in the conformation and stability were recorded by dynamic multimode spectroscopy and intrinsic and extrinsic fluorescence spectroscopic methods. Camel lens alpha-crystallin formed a random coil-like structure without losing its native-like beta-sheeted structure under two conditions: >50 °C at pH 7.5 and all temperatures at pH 2.0. The calculated enthalpy of denaturation, as determined by dynamic multimode spectroscopy at pH 7.5, 4.0, 2.0, and 1.0 revealed that alpha-crystallin never completely denatures under acidic conditions or thermal denaturation. Alpha-crystallin undergoes a single, reversible thermal transition at pH 7.5. The thermodynamic data (unfolding enthalpy and heat capacity change) and chaperone activities indicated that alpha-crystallin does not completely unfold above the thermal transition. Camels adapted to live in hot desert climates naturally exhibit the abovementioned unique features. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advance in Composite Gels)
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10 pages, 2398 KiB  
Communication
Stoichiometric Ratio Controlled Dimension Transition and Supramolecular Chirality Enhancement in a Two-Component Assembly System
by Penghui Zhang, Yiran Liu, Xinkuo Fang, Li Ma, Yuanyuan Wang and Lukang Ji
Gels 2022, 8(5), 269; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels8050269 - 26 Apr 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1802
Abstract
To control the dimension of the supramolecular system was of great significance. We construct a two component self-assembly system, in which the gelator LHC18 and achiral azobenzene carboxylic acid could co-assembly and form gels. By modulating the stoichiometric ratio of the two components, [...] Read more.
To control the dimension of the supramolecular system was of great significance. We construct a two component self-assembly system, in which the gelator LHC18 and achiral azobenzene carboxylic acid could co-assembly and form gels. By modulating the stoichiometric ratio of the two components, not only the morphology could be transformed from 1D nanaotube to 0D nanospheres but also the supramolecualr chirality could be tuned. This work could provide some insights to the control of dimension and the supramolecular chirality in the two-component systems by simply modulating the stoichiometric ratio. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advance in Composite Gels)
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15 pages, 2997 KiB  
Article
Incorporation of Natural and Recombinant Collagen Proteins within Fmoc-Based Self-Assembling Peptide Hydrogels
by Mattia Vitale, Cosimo Ligorio, Ian P. Smith, Stephen M. Richardson, Judith A. Hoyland and Jordi Bella
Gels 2022, 8(5), 254; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels8050254 - 21 Apr 2022
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2596
Abstract
Hydrogel biomaterials mimic the natural extracellular matrix through their nanofibrous ultrastructure and composition and provide an appropriate environment for cell–matrix and cell–cell interactions within their polymeric network. Hydrogels can be modified with different proteins, cytokines, or cell-adhesion motifs to control cell behavior and [...] Read more.
Hydrogel biomaterials mimic the natural extracellular matrix through their nanofibrous ultrastructure and composition and provide an appropriate environment for cell–matrix and cell–cell interactions within their polymeric network. Hydrogels can be modified with different proteins, cytokines, or cell-adhesion motifs to control cell behavior and cell differentiation. Collagens are desirable and versatile proteins for hydrogel modification due to their abundance in the vertebrate extracellular matrix and their interactions with cell-surface receptors. Here, we report a quick, inexpensive and effective protocol for incorporation of natural, synthetic and recombinant collagens into Fmoc-based self-assembling peptide hydrogels. The hydrogels are modified through a diffusion protocol in which collagen molecules of different molecular sizes are successfully incorporated and retained over time. Characterization studies show that these collagens interact with the hydrogel fibers without affecting the overall mechanical properties of the composite hydrogels. Furthermore, the collagen molecules incorporated into the hydrogels are still biologically active and provide sites for adhesion and spreading of human fibrosarcoma cells through interaction with the α2β1 integrin. Our protocol can be used to incorporate different types of collagen molecules into peptide-based hydrogels without any prior chemical modification. These modified hydrogels could be used in studies where collagen-based substrates are required to differentiate and control the cell behavior. Our protocol can be easily adapted to the incorporation of other bioactive proteins and peptides into peptide-based hydrogels to modulate their characteristics and their interaction with different cell types. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advance in Composite Gels)
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16 pages, 3691 KiB  
Article
Synergistic Interaction and Binding Efficiency of Tetracaine Hydrochloride (Anesthetic Drug) with Anionic Surfactants in the Presence of NaCl Solution Using Surface Tension and UV–Visible Spectroscopic Methods
by Naved Azum, Malik Abdul Rub, Anish Khan, Maha M. Alotaibi and Abdullah M. Asiri
Gels 2022, 8(4), 234; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels8040234 - 11 Apr 2022
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2333
Abstract
Surfactants are ubiquitous materials that are used in diverse formulations of various products. For instance, they improve the formulation of gel by improving its wetting and rheological properties. Here, we describe the effects of anionic surfactants on an anesthetic drug, tetracaine hydrochloride (TCH), [...] Read more.
Surfactants are ubiquitous materials that are used in diverse formulations of various products. For instance, they improve the formulation of gel by improving its wetting and rheological properties. Here, we describe the effects of anionic surfactants on an anesthetic drug, tetracaine hydrochloride (TCH), in NaCl solution with tensiometry and UV–visible techniques. Various micellar, interfacial, and thermodynamic parameters were estimated. The outputs were examined by using different theoretical models to attain a profound knowledge of drug–surfactant mixtures. The presence of attractive interactions among drug and surfactant monomers (synergism) in mixed micelle was inferred. However, it was found that sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) showed greater interactions with the drug in comparison to sodium lauryl sarcosine (SLS). The binding of the drug with surfactants was monitored with a spectroscopic technique (UV–visible spectra). The results of this study could help optimize the compositions of these mixed aggregates and find the synergism between monomers of different used amphiphiles. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advance in Composite Gels)
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19 pages, 3674 KiB  
Article
Effective Carbon/TiO2 Gel for Enhanced Adsorption and Demonstrable Visible Light Driven Photocatalytic Performance
by Anam Safri and Ashleigh Jane Fletcher
Gels 2022, 8(4), 215; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels8040215 - 01 Apr 2022
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 1741
Abstract
A new strategy to synthesise carbon/TiO2 gel by a sol–gel method is proposed. Textural, morphological, and chemical properties were characterised in detail and the synthesised material was proven to be an active adsorbent, as well as a visible light photocatalyst. Homogenously distributed [...] Read more.
A new strategy to synthesise carbon/TiO2 gel by a sol–gel method is proposed. Textural, morphological, and chemical properties were characterised in detail and the synthesised material was proven to be an active adsorbent, as well as a visible light photocatalyst. Homogenously distributed TiO2 is mesoporous with high surface area and, hence, exhibited a high adsorption capacity. The adsorption equilibrium experimental data were well explained by the Sips isotherm model. Kinetic experiments demonstrated that experimental data fitted a pseudo second order model. The modification in electronic structure of TiO2 resulted in a reduced bandgap compared to commercial P25. The absorption edge studied through UV-Vis shifted to the visible region, hence, daylight photocatalytic activity was efficient against degradation of MB dye, as an example pollutant molecule. The material was easily removed post treatment, demonstrating potential for employment in industrial water treatment processes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advance in Composite Gels)
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19 pages, 2162 KiB  
Article
Interaction of TX-100 and Antidepressant Imipramine Hydrochloride Drug Mixture: Surface Tension, 1H NMR, and FT-IR Investigation
by Malik Abdul Rub, Naved Azum, Dileep Kumar and Abdullah M. Asiri
Gels 2022, 8(3), 159; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels8030159 - 04 Mar 2022
Cited by 17 | Viewed by 2370
Abstract
Interfacial interaction amongst the antidepressant drug-imipramine hydrochloride (IMP) and pharmaceutical excipient (triton X-100 (TX-100-nonionic surfactant)) mixed system of five various ratios in dissimilar media (H2O/50 mmol·kg−1 NaCl/250 mmol·kg−1 urea) was investigated through the surface tension method. In addition, in [...] Read more.
Interfacial interaction amongst the antidepressant drug-imipramine hydrochloride (IMP) and pharmaceutical excipient (triton X-100 (TX-100-nonionic surfactant)) mixed system of five various ratios in dissimilar media (H2O/50 mmol·kg−1 NaCl/250 mmol·kg−1 urea) was investigated through the surface tension method. In addition, in the aqueous solution, the 1H-NMR, as well as FT-IR studies of the studied pure and mixed system were also explored and deliberated thoroughly. In NaCl media, properties of pure/mixed interfacial surfaces enhanced as compared with the aqueous system, and consequently the synergism/attractive interaction among constituents (IMP and TX-100) grew, whereas in urea (U) media a reverse effect was detected. Surface excess concentration (Γmax), composition of surfactant at mixed monolayer (X1σ), activity coefficient (f1σ (TX-100) and f2σ (IMP)), etc. were determined and discussed thoroughly. At mixed interfacial surfaces interaction, parameter (βσ) reveals the attractive/synergism among the components. The Gibbs energy of adsorption (ΔGadso) value attained was negative throughout all employed media viewing the spontaneity of the adsorption process. The 1H NMR spectroscopy was also employed to examine the molecular interaction of IMP and TX-100 in an aqueous system. FT-IR method as well illustrated the interaction amongst the component. The findings of the current study proposed that TX-100 surfactant could act as an efficient drug delivery vehicle for an antidepressant drug. Gels can be used as drug dosage forms due to recent improvements in the design of surfactant systems. Release mechanism of drugs from surfactant/polymer gels is dependent upon the microstructures of the gels and the state of the drugs within the system. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advance in Composite Gels)
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23 pages, 13038 KiB  
Article
Development of Flexible Plasticized Ion Conducting Polymer Blend Electrolytes Based on Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA): Chitosan (CS) with High Ion Transport Parameters Close to Gel Based Electrolytes
by Niyaz M. Sadiq, Shujahadeen B. Aziz and Mohd F. Z. Kadir
Gels 2022, 8(3), 153; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels8030153 - 02 Mar 2022
Cited by 21 | Viewed by 4679
Abstract
In the current study, flexible films of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA): chitosan (CS) solid polymer blend electrolytes (PBEs) with high ion transport property close enough to gel based electrolytes were prepared with the aid of casting methodology. Glycerol (GL) as a plasticizer and sodium [...] Read more.
In the current study, flexible films of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA): chitosan (CS) solid polymer blend electrolytes (PBEs) with high ion transport property close enough to gel based electrolytes were prepared with the aid of casting methodology. Glycerol (GL) as a plasticizer and sodium bromide (NaBr) as an ionic source provider are added to PBEs. The flexible films have been examined for their structural and electrical properties. The GL content changed the brittle and solid behavior of the films to a soft manner. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) methods were used to examine the structural behavior of the electrolyte films. X-ray diffraction investigation revealed that the crystalline character of PVA:CS:NaBr declined with increasing GL concentration. The FTIR investigation hypothesized the interaction between polymer mix salt systems and added plasticizer. Infrared (FTIR) band shifts and fluctuations in intensity have been found. The ion transport characteristics such as mobility, carrier density, and diffusion were successfully calculated using the experimental impedance data that had been fitted with EEC components and dielectric parameters. CS:PVA at ambient temperature has the highest ionic conductivity of 3.8 × 10 S/cm for 35 wt.% of NaBr loaded with 55 wt.% of GL. The high ionic conductivity and improved transport properties revealed the suitableness of the films for energy storage device applications. The dielectric constant and dielectric loss were higher at lower frequencies. The relaxation nature of the samples was investigated using loss tangent and electric modulus plots. The peak detected in the spectra of tanδ and M” plots and the distribution of data points are asymmetric besides the peak positions. The movements of ions are not free from the polymer chain dynamics due to viscoelastic relaxation being dominant. The distorted arcs in the Argand plot have confirmed the viscoelastic relaxation in all the prepared films. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advance in Composite Gels)
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20 pages, 6318 KiB  
Article
Hydrogel Containing Borassus flabellifer L. Male Flower Extract for Antioxidant, Antimicrobial, and Anti-Inflammatory Activity
by Prakairat Tunit, Phanit Thammarat, Siriporn Okonogi and Chuda Chittasupho
Gels 2022, 8(2), 126; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels8020126 - 17 Feb 2022
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 3271
Abstract
Borassus flabellifer L. is a plant in Arecaceae family, widely distributed and cultivated in tropical Asian countries. The purpose of this study was to identify the bioactive compounds of B.flabellifer L. male flower ethanolic extract and investigate the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial [...] Read more.
Borassus flabellifer L. is a plant in Arecaceae family, widely distributed and cultivated in tropical Asian countries. The purpose of this study was to identify the bioactive compounds of B.flabellifer L. male flower ethanolic extract and investigate the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial activities against Cutibacterium acnes. Total phenolic compounds and total flavonoids in B.flabellifer L. male flower ethanolic extract were determined by the Folin–Ciocalteu method and aluminum chloride colorimetric assay, respectively. Active substances in the extract and their quantities were analyzed by liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS). The antioxidant evaluation was carried out using DPPH, ABTS free radical scavenging assays, and FRAP assay. C. acnes inhibitory activity was performed by the broth microdilution method. Anti-inflammatory activity was determined by the protein denaturation assay. In addition, gel containing different amounts of B.flabellifer L. male flower extract was formulated. The physical stability of the gel was observed by measuring viscosity and pH after six heating and cooling cycles, as well as 1-month storage at 4, 30, and 45 °C. The total phenolic content in the extract was 268.30 ± 12.84 mg gallic acid equivalent/g crude dry extract. The total flavonoid contents in the extract were 1886.38 ± 55.86 mg quercetin equivalent/g extract and 2884.88 ± 128.98 mg EGCG equivalent/g extract, respectively. The LC–MS/MS analysis revealed the presence of gallic acid, coumarin, and quercetin and the concentrations of quercetin, coumarin, and gallic acid in B. flabellifer male flower ethanolic extract were 0.912, 0.021, and 1.610 µg/mL, respectively. DPPH and ABTS antioxidant assays indicated that the B.flabellifer L. male flower extract had IC50 values of 31.54 ± 0.43 and 164.5 ± 14.3 µg/mL, respectively. FRAP assay revealed that the B.flabellifer male flower extract had high ferric ion reducing power. The extract was able to inhibit C.acnes bacteria with a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 250 mg/mL. At 250 and 500 µg/mL, the extract demonstrated the highest anti-inflammatory activity. The gel containing 31.25% w/w and 62.5% w/w showed good physical stability after six heating and cooling cycles, as well as 1-month storage. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advance in Composite Gels)
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11 pages, 1170 KiB  
Article
A Ponceau S Staining-Based Dot Blot Assay for Rapid Protein Quantification of Biological Samples
by Dario Lucas Helbing, Leopold Böhm, Nova Oraha, Leonie Karoline Stabenow and Yan Cui
Gels 2022, 8(1), 43; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels8010043 - 07 Jan 2022
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 5596
Abstract
Despite the availability of a wide range of commercial kits, protein quantification is often unreliable, especially for tissue-derived samples, leading to uneven loading in subsequent experiments. Here we show that the widely used Bicinchoninic Acid (BCA) assay tends to underestimate protein concentrations of [...] Read more.
Despite the availability of a wide range of commercial kits, protein quantification is often unreliable, especially for tissue-derived samples, leading to uneven loading in subsequent experiments. Here we show that the widely used Bicinchoninic Acid (BCA) assay tends to underestimate protein concentrations of tissue samples. We present a Ponceau S staining-based dot-blot assay as an alternative for protein quantification. This method is simple, rapid, more reliable than the BCA assay, compatible with biological samples lysed in RIPA or 2x SDS gel-loading buffer, and also inexpensive. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advance in Composite Gels)
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14 pages, 4978 KiB  
Article
Fabrication and Characterization of Xanthan Gum-cl-poly(acrylamide-co-alginic acid) Hydrogel for Adsorption of Cadmium Ions from Aqueous Medium
by Gaurav Sharma, Amit Kumar, Ayman A. Ghfar, Alberto García-Peñas, Mu. Naushad and Florian J. Stadler
Gels 2022, 8(1), 23; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels8010023 - 27 Dec 2021
Cited by 24 | Viewed by 3622
Abstract
The present research demonstrates the facile fabrication of xanthan gum-cl-poly(acrylamide-co-alginic acid) (XG-cl-poly(AAm-co-AA)) hydrogel by employing microwave-assisted copolymerization. Simultaneous copolymerization of acrylamide (AAm) and alginic acid (AA) onto xanthan gum (XG) was carried out. Different samples were fabricated by changing the concentrations of AAm [...] Read more.
The present research demonstrates the facile fabrication of xanthan gum-cl-poly(acrylamide-co-alginic acid) (XG-cl-poly(AAm-co-AA)) hydrogel by employing microwave-assisted copolymerization. Simultaneous copolymerization of acrylamide (AAm) and alginic acid (AA) onto xanthan gum (XG) was carried out. Different samples were fabricated by changing the concentrations of AAm and AA. A sample with maximum swelling percentage was chosen for adsorption experiments. The structural and functional characteristics of synthesized hydrogel were elucidated using diverse characterization tools. Adsorption performance of XG-cl-poly(AAm-co-AA) hydrogel was investigated for the removal of noxious cadmium (Cd(II)) ions using batch adsorption from the aqueous system, various reaction parameters optimized include pH, contact time, temperature, and concentration of Cd(II) ions and temperature. The maximum adsorption was achieved at optimal pH 7, contact time 180 min, temperature 35 °C and cadmium ion centration of 10 mg·L−1. The XG-cl-poly(AAm-co-AA) hydrogel unveiled a very high adsorption potential, and its adsorption capacities considered based on the Langmuir isotherm for Cd(II) ions was 125 mg·g−1 at 35 °C. The Cd(II) ions adsorption data fitted nicely to the Freundlich isotherm and pseudo-first-order model. The reusability investigation demonstrated that hydrogel retained its adsorption capacity even after several uses without significant loss. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advance in Composite Gels)
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17 pages, 1501 KiB  
Article
Enzyme Responsive Vaginal Microbicide Gels Containing Maraviroc and Tenofovir Microspheres Designed for Acid Phosphatase-Triggered Release for Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis of HIV-1: A Comparative Analysis of a Bigel and Thermosensitive Gel
by Sabdat Ozichu Ekama, Margaret O. Ilomuanya, Chukwuemeka Paul Azubuike, James Babatunde Ayorinde, Oliver Chukwujekwu Ezechi, Cecilia Ihuoma Igwilo and Babatunde Lawal Salako
Gels 2022, 8(1), 15; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels8010015 - 24 Dec 2021
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2802
Abstract
The challenges encountered with conventional microbicide gels has necessitated the quest for alternative options. This study aimed to formulate and evaluate a bigel and thermosensitive gel, designed to combat the challenges of leakage and short-residence time in the vagina. Ionic-gelation technique was used [...] Read more.
The challenges encountered with conventional microbicide gels has necessitated the quest for alternative options. This study aimed to formulate and evaluate a bigel and thermosensitive gel, designed to combat the challenges of leakage and short-residence time in the vagina. Ionic-gelation technique was used to formulate maraviroc and tenofovir microspheres. The microspheres were incorporated into a thermosensitive gel and bigel, then evaluated. Enzyme degradation assay was used to assess the effect of the acid phosphatase enzyme on the release profile of maraviroc and tenofovir microspheres. HIV efficacy and cytotoxicity of the microspheres were assessed using HIV-1-BaL virus strain and HeLa cell lines, respectively. Maraviroc and tenofovir release kinetics followed zero-order and Higuchi model kinetics. However, under the influence of the enzyme, maraviroc release was governed by first-order model, while tenofovir followed a super case II transport-mechanism. The altered mode of release and drug transport mechanism suggests a triggered release. The assay of the microspheres suspension on the HeLa cells did not show signs of cytotoxicity. The thermosensitive gel and bigel elicited a progressive decline in HIV infectivity, until at concentrations of 1 μg/mL and 0.1 μg/mL, respectively. The candidate vaginal gels have the potential for a triggered release by the acid phosphatase enzyme present in the seminal fluid, thus, serving as a strategic point to prevent HIV transmission. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advance in Composite Gels)
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10 pages, 1958 KiB  
Article
Robust and Highly Stretchable Chitosan Nanofiber/Alumina-Coated Silica/Carboxylated Poly (Vinyl Alcohol)/Borax Composite Hydrogels Constructed by Multiple Crosslinking
by Hiroyuki Takeno and Nagisa Suto
Gels 2022, 8(1), 6; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels8010006 - 22 Dec 2021
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2701
Abstract
We investigated the mechanical and structural properties of composite hydrogels composed of chitosan nanofiber (ChsNF), positively charged alumina-coated silica (ac-SiO2) nanoparticles, carboxylated poly (vinyl alcohol) (cPVA), and borax. ChsNF/cPVA/borax hydrogels without ac-SiO2 exhibited high Young’s modulus but poor elongation, whereas [...] Read more.
We investigated the mechanical and structural properties of composite hydrogels composed of chitosan nanofiber (ChsNF), positively charged alumina-coated silica (ac-SiO2) nanoparticles, carboxylated poly (vinyl alcohol) (cPVA), and borax. ChsNF/cPVA/borax hydrogels without ac-SiO2 exhibited high Young’s modulus but poor elongation, whereas cPVA/ac-SiO2/borax hydrogels without ChsNF had moderate Young’s modulus but high elongation. ChsNF/ac-SiO2/cPVA/borax hydrogels using both ChsNF and ac-SiO2 as reinforcement agents exhibited high extensibility (930%) and high Young′s modulus beyond 1 MPa at a high ac-SiO2 concentration. The network was formed by multiple crosslinking such as the complexation between borate and cPVA, the ionic complexation between ac-SiO2 and cPVA, and the hydrogen bond between ChsNF and cPVA. Structural analysis by synchrotron small-angle X-ray scattering revealed that the nanostructural inhomogeneity in ChsNF/ac-SiO2/cPVA/borax hydrogel was suppressed compared to those of the ChsNF/cPVA/borax and cPVA/ac-SiO2/borax hydrogels. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advance in Composite Gels)
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19 pages, 4954 KiB  
Article
Properties of the PVA-VAVTD KOH Blend as a Gel Polymer Electrolyte for Zinc Batteries
by Alisson A. Iles Velez, Edwin Reyes, Antonio Diaz-Barrios, Florencio Santos, Antonio J. Fernández Romero and Juan P. Tafur
Gels 2021, 7(4), 256; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels7040256 - 10 Dec 2021
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 4007
Abstract
Rechargeable zinc-air batteries are promising for energy storage and portable electronic applications because of their good safety, high energy density, material abundance, low cost, and environmental friendliness. A series of alkaline gel polymer electrolytes formed from polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and different amounts of [...] Read more.
Rechargeable zinc-air batteries are promising for energy storage and portable electronic applications because of their good safety, high energy density, material abundance, low cost, and environmental friendliness. A series of alkaline gel polymer electrolytes formed from polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and different amounts of terpolymer composed of butyl acrylate, vinyl acetate, and vinyl neodecanoate (VAVTD) was synthesized applying a solution casting technique. The thin films were doped with KOH 12M, providing a higher amount of water and free ions inside the electrolyte matrix. The inclusion of VAVTD together with the PVA polymer improved several of the electrical properties of the PVA-based gel polymer electrolytes (GPEs). X-ray diffraction (XRD), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and attenuated total reflectance- Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR) tests, confirming that PVA chains rearrange depending on the VAVTD content and improving the amorphous region. The most conducting electrolyte film was the test specimen 1:4 (PVA-VAVTD) soaked in KOH solution, reaching a conductivity of 0.019 S/cm at room temperature. The temperature dependence of the conductivity agrees with the Arrhenius equation and activation energy of ~0.077 eV resulted, depending on the electrolyte composition. In addition, the cyclic voltammetry study showed a current intensity increase at higher VAVTD content, reaching values of 310 mA. Finally, these gel polymer electrolytes were tested in Zn–air batteries, obtaining capacities of 165 mAh and 195 mAh for PVA-T4 and PVA-T5 sunk in KOH, respectively, at a discharge current of −5 mA. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advance in Composite Gels)
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12 pages, 3092 KiB  
Article
Genipin-Based Crosslinking of Jellyfish Collagen 3D Hydrogels
by Laura Riacci, Angela Sorriento and Leonardo Ricotti
Gels 2021, 7(4), 238; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels7040238 - 27 Nov 2021
Cited by 14 | Viewed by 3816
Abstract
Collagen-based hydrogels are an attractive option in the field of cartilage regeneration with features of high biocompatibility and low immunogenic response. Crosslinking treatments are often employed to create stable 3D gels that can support and facilitate cell embodiment. In this study, we explored [...] Read more.
Collagen-based hydrogels are an attractive option in the field of cartilage regeneration with features of high biocompatibility and low immunogenic response. Crosslinking treatments are often employed to create stable 3D gels that can support and facilitate cell embodiment. In this study, we explored the properties of JellaGel™, a novel jellyfish material extracted from Rhizostoma pulmo. In particular, we analyzed the influence of genipin, a natural crosslinker, on the formation of 3D stable JellaGel™ hydrogels embedding human chondrocytes. Three concentrations of genipin were used for this purpose (1 mM, 2.5 mM, and 5 mM). Morphological, thermal, and mechanical properties were investigated for the crosslinked materials. The metabolic activity of embedded chondrocytes was also evaluated at different time points (3, 7, and 14 days). Non-crosslinked hydrogels resulted in an unstable matrix, while genipin-crosslinked hydrogels resulted in a stable matrix, without significant changes in their properties; their collagen network revealed characteristic dimensions in the order of 20 µm, while their denaturation temperature was 57 °C. After 7 and 14 days of culture, chondrocytes showed a significantly higher metabolic activity within the hydrogels crosslinked with 1 mM genipin, compared to those crosslinked with 5 mM genipin. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advance in Composite Gels)
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12 pages, 3664 KiB  
Article
Luminescent Hydrogel Based on Silver Nanocluster/Malic Acid and Its Composite Film for Highly Sensitive Detection of Fe3+
by Xiangkai Liu, Chunhui Li, Zhi Wang, Na Zhang, Ning Feng, Wenjuan Wang and Xia Xin
Gels 2021, 7(4), 192; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels7040192 - 31 Oct 2021
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 1959
Abstract
Metal nanoclusters (NCs) with excellent photoluminescence properties are an emerging functional material that have rich physical and chemical properties and broad application prospects. However, it is a challenging problem to construct such materials into complex ordered aggregates and cause aggregation-induced emission (AIE). In [...] Read more.
Metal nanoclusters (NCs) with excellent photoluminescence properties are an emerging functional material that have rich physical and chemical properties and broad application prospects. However, it is a challenging problem to construct such materials into complex ordered aggregates and cause aggregation-induced emission (AIE). In this article, we use the supramolecular self-assembly strategy to regulate a water-soluble, atomically precise Ag NCs (NH4)9[Ag9(C7H4SO2)9] (Ag9-NCs, [Ag9(mba)9], H2mba = 2-mercaptobenzoic acid) and L-malic acid (L–MA) to form a phosphorescent hydrogel with stable and bright luminescence, which is ascribed to AIE phenomenon. In this process, the AIE of Ag9-NCs could be attributed to the non-covalent interactions between L–MA and Ag9-NCs, which restrict the intramolecular vibration and rotation of ligands on the periphery of Ag9-NCs, thus inhibiting the ligand-related, non-radiative excited state relaxation and promoting radiation energy transfer. In addition, the fluorescent Ag9-NCs/L–MA xerogel was introduced into polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) to form an excellently fluorescent film for sensing of Fe3+. Ag9-NCs/L–MA/PMMA film exhibits an excellent ability to recognize Fe3+ ion with high selectivity and a low detection limit of 0.3 μM. This research enriches self-assembly system for enhancing the AIE of metal NCs, and the prepared hybrid films will become good candidates for optical materials. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advance in Composite Gels)
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14 pages, 3735 KiB  
Article
The Effect of Different Additives on the Hydration and Gelation Properties of Composite Dental Gypsum
by Liang Ma, Qianting Xie, Amutenya Evelina, Wenjun Long, Cunfa Ma, Fengshan Zhou and Ruitao Cha
Gels 2021, 7(3), 117; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels7030117 - 11 Aug 2021
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3497
Abstract
Dental mold gypsum materials require fine powder, appropriate liquidity, fast curing, and easy-to-perform clinical operations. They require low linear expansion coefficient and high strength, reflecting the master model and facilitating demolding. In this article, the suitable accelerators and reinforcing agents were selected as [...] Read more.
Dental mold gypsum materials require fine powder, appropriate liquidity, fast curing, and easy-to-perform clinical operations. They require low linear expansion coefficient and high strength, reflecting the master model and facilitating demolding. In this article, the suitable accelerators and reinforcing agents were selected as additives to modify dental gypsum. The main experimental methods used were to compare the trends of linear expansion coefficients of several commercially available dental gypsum products over 72 h and to observe the cross-sectional microstructure of cured bodies before and after dental gypsum modification using scanning electron microscopy. By adjusting the application of additives, the linear expansion coefficient of dental gypsum decreased from 0.26% to 0.06%, while the flexural strength increased from 6.7 MPa to 7.4 MPa at 2 h. Formulated samples showed good stability and gelation properties with linear expansion completed within 12 h. It is indicated that the performance of dental gypsum materials can be improved by adding additives and nanomaterials, which provided a good reference for clinical preparation of high-precision dental prosthesis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advance in Composite Gels)
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Review

Jump to: Editorial, Research

19 pages, 1505 KiB  
Review
Hydrogels for Exosome Delivery in Biomedical Applications
by Yaxin Xie, Qiuyue Guan, Jiusi Guo, Yilin Chen, Yijia Yin and Xianglong Han
Gels 2022, 8(6), 328; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels8060328 - 24 May 2022
Cited by 28 | Viewed by 5293
Abstract
Hydrogels, which are hydrophilic polymer networks, have attracted great attention, and significant advances in their biological and biomedical applications, such as for drug delivery, tissue engineering, and models for medical studies, have been made. Due to their similarity in physiological structure, hydrogels are [...] Read more.
Hydrogels, which are hydrophilic polymer networks, have attracted great attention, and significant advances in their biological and biomedical applications, such as for drug delivery, tissue engineering, and models for medical studies, have been made. Due to their similarity in physiological structure, hydrogels are highly compatible with extracellular matrices and biological tissues and can be used as both carriers and matrices to encapsulate cellular secretions. As small extracellular vesicles secreted by nearly all mammalian cells to mediate cell–cell interactions, exosomes play very important roles in therapeutic approaches and disease diagnosis. To maintain their biological activity and achieve controlled release, a strategy that embeds exosomes in hydrogels as a composite system has been focused on in recent studies. Therefore, this review aims to provide a thorough overview of the use of composite hydrogels for embedding exosomes in medical applications, including the resources for making hydrogels and the properties of hydrogels, and strategies for their combination with exosomes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advance in Composite Gels)
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19 pages, 890 KiB  
Review
Novel Gels: An Emerging Approach for Delivering of Therapeutic Molecules and Recent Trends
by Trideva K. Sastri, Vishal N. Gupta, Souvik Chakraborty, Sharadha Madhusudhan, Hitesh Kumar, Pallavi Chand, Vikas Jain, Balamuralidhara Veeranna and Devegowda V. Gowda
Gels 2022, 8(5), 316; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels8050316 - 19 May 2022
Cited by 15 | Viewed by 3595
Abstract
Gels are semisolid, homogeneous systems with continuous or discrete therapeutic molecules in a suitable lipophilic or hydrophilic three-dimensional network base. Innovative gel systems possess multipurpose applications in cosmetics, food, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and so forth. Formulating a gel-based delivery system is simple and the [...] Read more.
Gels are semisolid, homogeneous systems with continuous or discrete therapeutic molecules in a suitable lipophilic or hydrophilic three-dimensional network base. Innovative gel systems possess multipurpose applications in cosmetics, food, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and so forth. Formulating a gel-based delivery system is simple and the delivery system enables the release of loaded therapeutic molecules. Furthermore, it facilitates the delivery of molecules via various routes as these gel-based systems offer proximal surface contact between a loaded therapeutic molecule and an absorption site. In the past decade, researchers have potentially explored and established a significant understanding of gel-based delivery systems for drug delivery. Subsequently, they have enabled the prospects of developing novel gel-based systems that illicit drug release by specific biological or external stimuli, such as temperature, pH, enzymes, ultrasound, antigens, etc. These systems are considered smart gels for their broad applications. This review reflects the significant role of advanced gel-based delivery systems for various therapeutic benefits. This detailed discussion is focused on strategies for the formulation of different novel gel-based systems, as well as it highlights the current research trends of these systems and patented technologies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advance in Composite Gels)
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19 pages, 3901 KiB  
Review
Review of Microgels for Enhanced Oil Recovery: Properties and Cases of Application
by Yulia A. Rozhkova, Denis A. Burin, Sergey V. Galkin and Hongbin Yang
Gels 2022, 8(2), 112; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels8020112 - 11 Feb 2022
Cited by 14 | Viewed by 2351
Abstract
In todays’ world, there is an increasing number of mature oil fields every year, a phenomenon that is leading to the development of more elegant enhanced oil recovery (EOR) technologies that are potentially effective for reservoir profile modification. The technology of conformance control [...] Read more.
In todays’ world, there is an increasing number of mature oil fields every year, a phenomenon that is leading to the development of more elegant enhanced oil recovery (EOR) technologies that are potentially effective for reservoir profile modification. The technology of conformance control using crosslinked microgels is one the newest trends that is gaining momentum every year. This is due to the simplicity of the treatment process and its management, as well as the guaranteed effect in the case of the correct well candidate selection. We identified the following varieties of microgels: microspheres, thermo- and pH-responsible microgels, thin fracture of preformed particle gels, colloidal dispersed gels. In this publication, we try to combine the available chemical aspects of microgel production with the practical features of their application at oil production facilities. The purpose of this publication is to gather available information about microgels (synthesis method, monomers) and to explore world experience in microgel application for enhanced oil recovery. This article will be of great benefit to specialists engaged in polymer technologies at the initial stage of microgel development. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advance in Composite Gels)
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22 pages, 4989 KiB  
Review
Research Progress in the Multilayer Hydrogels
by Lu Jin, Jia Xu, Youcai Xue, Xinjiang Zhang, Mengna Feng, Chengshuang Wang, Wei Yao, Jinshan Wang and Meng He
Gels 2021, 7(4), 172; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels7040172 - 17 Oct 2021
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2795
Abstract
Hydrogels have been widely used in many fields including biomedicine and water treatment. Significant achievements have been made in these fields due to the extraordinary properties of hydrogels, such as facile processability and tissue similarity. However, based on the in-depth study of the [...] Read more.
Hydrogels have been widely used in many fields including biomedicine and water treatment. Significant achievements have been made in these fields due to the extraordinary properties of hydrogels, such as facile processability and tissue similarity. However, based on the in-depth study of the microstructures of hydrogels, as a result of the enhancement of biomedical requirements in drug delivery, cell encapsulation, cartilage regeneration, and other aspects, it is challenge for conventional homogeneous hydrogels to simultaneously meet different needs. Fortunately, heterogeneous multilayer hydrogels have emerged and become an important branch of hydrogels research. In this review, their main preparation processes and mechanisms as well as their composites from different resources and methods, are introduced. Moreover, the more recent achievements and potential applications are also highlighted, and their future development prospects are clarified and briefly discussed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advance in Composite Gels)
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