Hydrogels containing caffeine and based on Beetosan® – proecological chitosan – preparation, characterization, and in vitro cytotoxicity

In paper preparation and characterization of hydrogels based on chitosan of bees' origin and modified with caffeine have been reported. Surface morphology of hydrogel materials including their average porosity has been determined. Furthermore, study of the release of caffeine from hydrogels in different environments was determined. Subsequently, studies on cytotoxicity of hydrogels to fibroblasts and cancer cells has been defined. Based on the research it can be stated that honeybees constitute an interesting material that could be a valuable source of chitosan. Prepared hydrogels had a significant negative impact on the cancer cells and did not affect negatively on fibroblasts.