# Synthesis and Analysis of Novel Hyaluronic Acid-Based Dual Photocrosslinkable Tissue Adhesive: An In Vitro Study

## TL;DR

This study creates and tests a new tissue adhesive based on hyaluronic acid, showing it has properties similar to traditional fibrin glue and could be useful in medical applications.

## Contribution

The paper introduces a novel hyaluronic acid-based dual photocrosslinkable tissue adhesive and evaluates its potential for medical use.

## Key findings

- The HA adhesive showed surface morphology, mechanical properties, and biocompatibility comparable to conventional fibrin glue.
- SEM analysis revealed smooth and nonporous surfaces with molecule sizes of 10-25 mm.
- Cytotoxicity assays indicated the HA adhesive is as safe as fibrin glue.

## Abstract

Background

Tissue adhesives are mainly used for aiding in the attachment of adjacent tissues or to nearby hard tissue surfaces. They promote the natural healing processes of the tissues, especially for less painful closure, simple application, no need for sutures following surgery, and localized drug release. This study aimed to synthesize and assess the properties of hyaluronic acid (HA)-based, dual photocrosslinkable tissue adhesive.

Materials and methodology

N-hydroxysuccinimide (NHS), 1-ethyl-3-(3-dimethylaminopropyl)-carbodiimide (EDC), HA, and polymethylmethacrylate, which served as a photoinitiator, were combined to synthesize a tissue adhesive. The prepared formulation was characterized, and its biocompatibility was assessed.

Results

Surface morphology, mechanical properties, and biological properties of the HA adhesive were comparable to those of conventional fibrin glue. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis showed the average size of the molecules, 10-25 mm in diameter, and also showed a smooth and nonporous surface. The specimens experienced maximum compressive stress of 0.06 ± 0.02 MPa, compressive strain of 3.07 ± 2.02, and a compressive displacement at break of 3.04 ± 1.23 mm, with a maximum force of 2.33 ± 0.07 N at break. The cytotoxicity assay results for HA and fibrin glue are almost equal.

Conclusion

HA-based photocrosslinkable tissue adhesive could be a potential biomaterial in various applications in the field of medicine, especially in soft tissue management.