Dextran hydrogels via disulfide-containing Schiff base formation: Synthesis, stimuli-sensitive degradation and release behaviors

Dextran hydrogels with pH/GSH dual-sensitive degradation and release behaviors were facilely prepared via dextran oxidation and subsequent Schiff base formation. [Display omitted] •Dextran hydrogels were prepared via disulfide containing Schiff base formation.•Degradation profiles were investigated by SEM, rheology study and Ellman’s assay.•A pH/reduction dual sensitive degradation and release behavior was demonstrated.•Cytocompatibility and cell uptake of released DOX was proved by transwell culture. Dextran hydrogels (Dex-SS) containing both disulfide and Schiff base bonds were developed via facile method based on the dextran oxidation and subsequent formation of Schiff base linkages between polyaldehyde dextran and cystamine, denoted as the disulfide-containing Schiff base reactions. Results of rheology, swelling and 13C CP/MAS NMR study indicated that cross-linking degree of Dex-SS hydrogels depended strongly on the molar ratio of -CHO/-NH2. Acidic and reductive (GSH) environment sensitive degradation behaviors of Dex-SS hydrogels were then evidenced by SEM, rheology study and Ellman’s assay. Moreover, doxorubicin (DOX) was loaded into the hydrogel matrix and pH/GSH-responsive release behaviors were demonstrated. Cytocompatibility of Dex-SS hydrogel and effective cell uptake of released DOX was finally proved by transwell assay with HepG2 cells. Take advantages of the abundance of vicinal hydroxyl on a variety of polysaccharides, the disulfide-containing Schiff base reactions is considered as versatile method to develop stimuli-sensitive hydrogels for local drug delivery.