Bioengineering Novel Hydrogel Systems: Nucleic Acid Nanoparticles and Protein Polymeric Networks for Sustained Model Drug Delivery

Abstract

The present study focused on the inclusion of tomato leaves-derived DNA nanoparticles into the production processes of natural hydrogel models. UV–VIS spectrophotometer and agarose gel electrophoresis were performed for investigating DNA purity. DNA powders were qualified in terms of particle size and zeta potential. Various amounts of DNA nanoparticles were integrated into pea protein-derived hydrogels. Gel namely PPDH₁, PPDH₂, PPDH₃, and PPDH₄ were prepared in the presence of 0.5, 1, 1.5, and 2% (w/v) DNA. Locust bean gum (LBG) instead of DNA was utilized in the production of positive control (PPLH). Negative control (PPH) was created with pea protein alone. FTIR spectra, molecular visualization, and thermal stabilities of hydrogels were debated. Their morphological structures were monitored by SEM. Incorporating DNA to hydrogel resulted in the development of water-holding capacity (PPDH₁: 93.54%, PPDH₂: 94.93%, PPDH₃: 91.12%, PPDH₄: 82.16%, PPH: 50.25%) and swelling ratio (PPDH₁: 10.04%, PPDH₂: 12.33%, PPDH₃: 7.76%, PPDH₄: 5.91%; PPH: 6.77%). Also, protein leachability showed that the presence of nanoparticles contributed to preventing leakage of proteins from the system. Moreover, in general, superior values in terms of mechanical (textural/rheology) behaviors were obvious in PPDH₂. Awareness in ascorbic acid release for PPDH₂ was apparent in sodium phosphate buffer and in simulated gastrointestinal fluids. Moreover, hydrogels for stability tests were stored for 15 days. Findings indicated that increasing DNA concentration above a certain level led to unwelcome side effects on functional behavior and structural strength of natural hydrogels. Ultimately, approaches and findings will be a guide for future studies regarding biosensor hydrogel and drug delivery systems.