Synthesis and Characterization of Chitosan grafted PNIPAAm Copolymer: A Promising Scaffold for Corneal Regeneration

In this study, a novel copolymer using chitosan (Cs) as the backbone and poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAAm) as side chains was specifically synthesized for cornea regeneration. This innovative copolymer demonstrated optimal properties, including a controlled degradation rate of ${8 8. 5 5 \%}$ weight loss after 7 days in simulated tear fluid (STF). Additionally, Cs-g-PNIPAAm showed a notable increase in fluorescence intensity from 3.12 ± 0.1 to $6.45 \pm 0.7$ on the $7^{\text {th }}$ day of culture, indicating excellent biocompatibility and safety. The copolymer also exhibited enhanced mucoadhesion in contact with fresh mucosa. These characteristics collectively highlight its significant potential for effective corneal repair and regeneration.