An interpenetrating network biohydrogel of gelatin and gellan gum by using a combination of enzymatic and ionic crosslinking approaches

Gelatin is a popular substrate for cell culture applications due to its biocompatibility and biodegradability. However, the mechanical property of gelatin is not satisfactory in certain tissue engineering areas where tunable and higher mechanical strengths are required. To achieve this purpose without exposure of materials to cytotoxic chemicals or procedures, a new biohydrogel of gelatin and gellan gum with an interpenetrating network ( IPN ) structure was prepared using a combination of enzymatic and ionic crosslinking approaches. The gelation procedure and thermal stability of the IPN structure were demonstrated in detail by a rheological study. The resulting IPN biohydrogel exhibited significantly increased and tunable mechanical strength, decreased swelling ratios and lower degradation rate compared with pure gelatin gel. The composite biohydrogels supported the attachment and proliferation of L929 fibroblasts as shown in vitro . These results indicate that this mechanically robust biohydrogel has the promising potential for serving as a cell support in the field of tissue engineering. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry