Preparation and characterization of phenylboronic acid cross-linked hydrogel

Hydrogels demonstrate significant value in the biomedical field, particularly in wound management and tissue engineering, owing to their unique three-dimensional network structure, excellent biocompatibility, and functional design flexibility. This study successfully developed a multifunctional hydrogel (QPHP) constructed from natural polymers of chitosan (CS) and hyaluronic acid (HA). CS was functionalized via quaternization and 3-nitro-4-carboxyphenylboronic acid to obtain QCSP, while HA was modified by grafting 4-fluorophenylboronic acid to prepare HAP. The hydrogel network is formed through dynamic boronate ester bonds and electrostatic interactions between QCSP and HAP. Experiments indicate that stable, self-supporting gels form when 2 % (w/v) QCSP is mixed with HAP at a concentration not less than 4 %. Performance characterization results show that the optimized formulation (2 % QCSP/5 % HAP) exhibited favorable swelling ratio and water retention capacity. Scanning electron microscopy images further confirm that the hydrogel possesses a uniform, porous three-dimensional network structure. Additionally, the QPHP hydrogel demonstrates good stretchability, rapid self-healing capability, and strong adhesion to various biological substrates. In summary, the QPHP hydrogel integrates adjustable physical properties, self-healing characteristics, and reliable bioadhesion, showing promising potential for application in advanced wound dressings.