Carbon nanotubes hybrid hydrogels for electrically tunable release of Curcumin

Electro-responsive hybrid hydrogels were synthesized by free radical polymerization using Gelatin-coated multi-walled carbon nanotubes as electro-conductive component, acrylamide and polyethylene glycol dimethacrylate as plasticizing and crosslinking monomer, respectively. Dynamic light scattering, Raman spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, resistivity measurement, cell viability assay, and evaluation of swelling degree upon application of an external voltage at 0, 12, 24, 36, and 48 V were performed as characterization tools. Composite materials were found to be highly versatile in modulating the drug delivery of neutral drugs (e.g. Curcumin) as a function of both nanotube content and voltage magnitude, with drug partition between carrier and releasing media being dependent on the balance between electrostatic attractive and repulsive forces and hydrogel swelling degree. Finally, suitable mathematical modelling were employed for the kinetic characterization of the release mechanism. The results allowed hypothesizing the use of hybrid for different therapeutic needs in wound healing treatment.