Abstract

In this manuscript, dual responsive semi-interpenetrating polymer networks hydrogels (polyvinyl alcohol/poly(acrylamide-co-
(2-dimethylamino)ethyl methacrylate) [PVPAD]) fabricated from (2-dimethylamino)ethyl methacrylate, PVP, and acrylamide
for anti-cancer drug (5-fluorouracil [5-FU]) delivery application. PVPAD hydrogels are successfully prepared by a simple free
radical polymerization using N,N1-methylene-bis-acrylamide, and bis[2-methacryloyloxy] ethyl phosphate as a cross-linkers.
The developed hydrogels are characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectrometer, X-ray diffraction, thermogravimetry, and
scanning electron microscopy analysis to confirm the formation, structural interactions, thermal, and morphological properties.
This study aimed to investigate the effect of crosslinker on swelling behavior and delayed release of 5-FU from PVPAD
polymeric network. The studied parameters included: Monomer concentration, crosslinking agent type and concentration, and
their overall effect on swelling of the hydrogels, drug loading efficiency, diffusion, and in vitro release characteristics of 5-FU
from PVPAD hydrogels.