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.