METHACRYLATED CHITOSAN HYDROGEL FOR DENTAL APPLICATIONS

Abstract

Chitosan, a naturally derived cationic polysaccharide obtained from chitin, has attracted significant attention in biomedical research due to its biocompatibility,
biodegradability, and mucoadhesive properties. Chemical modification of chitosan is often employed to enhance its physicochemical and biological characteristics
for tissue engineering and drug delivery applications. In the present study, methacrylated chitosan was synthesized by reacting chitosan with methacrylic anhydride
in an acidic aqueous medium. The resulting polymer was purified through dialysis and subsequently freeze-dried. Structural characterization of the modified
polymer was carried out using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). Additionally, antimicrobial activity
was evaluated using agar diffusion assays. The results indicated successful methacrylation of chitosan, as confirmed by characteristic FTIR peaks corresponding
to methacrylate functional groups. SEM analysis revealed a porous morphology suitable for scaffold-based tissue engineering applications. The synthesized
methacrylated chitosan demonstrated moderate antimicrobial activity and shows potential for applications in dental tissue engineering, 3D bioprinting, and drug
delivery systems. Further studies involving mechanical reinforcement and incorporation of bioactive components are recommended to enhance its performance.