Size-dependent release of fluorescent macromolecules and nanoparticles from radically cross-linked hydrogels

Hydrogels play an important role in drug delivery and tissue engineering applications due to their excellent biocompatibility and their variable mechanical and physical properties, which allow their optimization for many different aspects of the intended use. In this study, we examined the suitability of poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG)-based hydrogels as release systems for nanometer-sized drugs or drug carriers, like nanoparticles, using the radically cross-linkable oligo(poly(ethylene glycol)fumarate) (OPF) together with two cross-linking agents. Different fluorescent nanoparticulate probes with respect to size and physical structure were incorporated in the cross-linked hydrogels, and the obtained release profiles were correlated with the physical properties and the chemical structure of the gels, indicating a strong dependence of the release on the chosen PEG prepolymers. The prepared hydrogels were characterized by oscillatory rheometry and swelling experiments. Release experiments as well as diffusion measurements using fluorescence recovery after photobleaching showed the great potential of this type of hydrogels for the preparation of adjustable release systems by altering the molecular weights of the used PEG molecules.