A Universal Multifunctional Zinc Ionic Semi-Interpenetrating Network Hydrogel Coating on Polymer Surfaces.

Abstract

Integration of hydrogel coatings onto medical devices holds great promise to mitigate tissue-device contact issues, yet achieving robust interfacial bonding and multifunctionality remains challenging. Here, a universal multifunctional zinc ionic semi-interpenetrating network hydrogel coating (Zn-SIHC) is developed onto polymer surfaces for tissue-friendly interventions. Zn-SIHC is generated in situ through surface-initiated polymerization of acrylamide (AM) as the primary covalent network. Chitosan is uniformly dispersed within this network, where zinc ions act as the cross-linkers to establish a complementary ionic network. Incorporation of zinc ions enhances both tensile strength (fourfold increase) and peeling strength (uo tp ∼900 N/m) due to ionic reinforcement and ensures good antibacterial capability. Meanwhile, Zn-SIHC exhibits favorable hydrophilic lubricity (CoF = 0.05), transparency (91%), antifouling properties, and biocompatibility. The clinical applicability of Zn-SIHC in alleviating intubation-related side effects is verified using an in vivo tracheal intubation model in cynomolgus monkeys. The potential mechanism by which Zn-SIHC inhibits intubation injury-induced inflammation and apoptosis is preliminarily deciphered. This work opens a new avenue for surface engineering of medical intervention devices.