Modulated in Vitro Biocompatibility of a Unique Cross-Linked Salicylic Acid–Poly(ε-caprolactone)-Based Biodegradable Polymer

Herein, we report the development of a unique architecture by chemically cross-linking salicylic acid (SA)-based poly­(anhydride ester) onto a biodegradable amine-functionalized poly­(caprolactone) (PCL), using lactic acid as a spacer. The ester and amide linkages in the SA–PCL polymer, synthesized through melt condensation, were confirmed by NMR and FT-IR spectroscopic techniques. The enzymatic and nonenzymatic hydrolytic degradation profile exhibited linear degradation kinetics over an extended time period (>5 weeks). The compatibility and growth of C2C12 myoblast cells were found to be significantly improved on the fast-degrading SA–PCL substrates compared to those over neat PCL and amine-functionalized PCL. Further, the decreased red blood cell damage, illustrated by 0.39% hemolysis activity and a minimal number of platelet adhesion on a SA–PCL polymeric surface confirmed good hemocompatibility of the as-synthesized polymer. Together with a moderate bactericidal property, the spectrum of properties of this novel polymer can be attributed to the synergistic effect of the presence of chemical moieties of SA and amine groups in PCL. In summary, it is considered that a SA–PCL-based cross-linked composite can be utilized as a new biodegradable polymer.