Abstract
Novel 8-armed poly(ethylene glycol)-poly(ε-caprolactone) (PEG-PCL) star block copolymers, possessing an amide or an ester group between the PEG core and the PCL arms (PEG20K-(NHCO)-(PCL9)8 and PEG20K-(OCO)-(PCL9)8), are synthesized by ring opening polymerization of ε-caprolactone in toluene at 110 °C initiated by 8-armed star PEG20K-(NH2)8 and PEG20K-(OH)8, respectively. Compared to linear triblock copolymers with a similar hydrophilic/hydrophobic balance and molecular weight, star block copolymers show better aqueous solubility and yield more homogeneous and transparent hydrogels. PEG20K-(NHCO)-(PCL9)8 hydrogels exhibit a significantly higher storage modulus and in vitro stability in comparison with PEG20K-(OCO)-(PCL9)8 hydrogels of similar concentration and molecular weight. 1H NMR analysis of degrading hydrogel samples clearly demonstrates different degradation mechanisms for the ester and amide type star block copolymers. Their robust mechanical properties, the possibility to be formed in situ and their excellent resistance against hydrolytic degradation make these PEG-PCL star block copolymer hydrogels, especially those based on PEG20K-(NHCO)-(PCL9)8, appealing for various biomedical applications.