In situ–forming quercetin-conjugated heparin hydrogels for blood compatible and antiproliferative metal coating

Abstract

In this study, in situ–forming quercetin-conjugated heparin hydrogels to be used to coat metal surfaces for blood compatibility were developed and characterized. Four units of quercetin and poly(ethylene glycol)–tyramine were conjugated per heparin for blood compatibility and hydrogel formation, respectively. The product, quercetin-conjugated heparin–poly(ethylene glycol)–tyramine, was cross-linked in situ via an enzymatic reaction using horseradish peroxidase and hydrogen peroxide to form a hydrogel. The physicochemical properties, such as the gelation time and swelling/degradation time as well as the release kinetics of quercetin, were controlled by changing the catalytic concentrations. The quercetin-conjugated heparin hydrogel, when adhered to a metal surface, enhanced blood compatibility and reduced platelet adhesion by 77%. The release of quercetin inhibited the proliferation of smooth muscle cells. The quercetin-conjugated heparin–poly(ethylene glycol)–tyramine hydrogel is a promising biomaterial with a stable-coated metal surface, with enhanced blood compatibility and antiproliferation effects.