Radiation Synthesis and Anti-inflammatory Evaluation of Polysaccharide Hydrogels from Ulmus Davidiana Var. Japonica

Abstract

In this study, polysaccharide-poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) hydrogels were prepared by using γ-ray and evaluated for potential application as an anti-inflammation patch. Ulmus davidiana var. japonica (UD), one of polysaccharides has been particularly used as an oriental remedy for the treatment of inflammation and ulcers. PVA as a biocompatible polymer and glycerin as a moisturizer were blended with the UD, and its hydrogels were prepared by radiation crosslinking. Characterizations for UD hydrogels were performed by using cytotoxicity assay, antioxidant activity test, and physicochemical test such as gel fraction ratio, and swelling behavior. The results showed that these UD hydrogels had excellent physical properties, anti-inflammation activity, and non-cytotoxicity on the cells. Therefore, these polysaccharide based-UD hydrogels can be effectively used as an inflammation patch.