Synthesis and characterization of photo-cross-linked networks based on L-lactide/serine copolymers

New lactide-based polydepsipeptide polymer networks and cross-linked beads have been prepared by UV photopolymerization of acrylated poly(L-lactic acid-co-glycolic acid-co-L-serine) [PLA(Glc-Ser)]. These materials have been developed for use as polymer scaffolds in tissue engineering, cell encapsulation, and injectable drug delivery, which have ligand-immobilizable and biodegradable characteristics. The acrylated PLA(Glc-Ser) cross-linked polymer networks obtained were-glassy and transparent, and the gel content was approximately 90%. The networks showed relatively low swelling in water, due to their cross-linked nature, but are easily swelling in chloroform and in dimethyl sulfoxide. The acrylate polymers on copolymerization with 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA) resulted in crosslinked networks [PLA(Glc-Ser)/HEMA], which were swelling in water and in DMSO showing the potential of the polymer in hydrogel applications. The modified PLA(Glc-Ser) beads prepared by UV-initiated suspension polymerization were characterized by optical microscopy and FTIR. These degradable networks and beads should be useful as polymer scaffolds for biomaterial applications.