Synthesis and characterization of a novel chitosan-N-acetyl-homocysteine thiolactone polymer using MES buffer

We report a new “green” approach to synthesize a novel thiolated chitosan conjugate, chitosan-N-acetyl-homocysteine thiolactone (chitosan-AcHcys) using a “Goodʹs buffers”, 2-(N-morpholino)ethanesulfonic acid (MES). After that, the crosslinked Xr–chitosan-AcHcys was obtained only in the presence of air, without other reactants. The chitosan-AcHcys spectrum shows a partial incorporation of the thiolactone onto the polymer backbone. The derivative thermogravimetric analysis confirmed that chitosan-AcHcys is slightly less stable than starting chitosan; however, the peak profile is broadened which is indicative of deeper changes in the thermal degradation process. Also, aqueous dispersions with different concentrations of the crosslinked material (Xr–chitosan-AcHcys) were prepared and rheologically characterized. All aqueous dispersions are viscoelastic fluid with shear-thinning behavior. The viscosity of the dispersions (1–7% of chitosan-AcHcys) increases as a function of polymer concentration. So, we have achieved to disperse a high concentration of thiolated-chitosan derivative in water with different rheological characteristics, which could affect the drug release.