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Scientists from the Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Technology at 91��ý Kazakh National University are implementing a large-scale "Jhas Galym" research project aimed at solving critical problems in modern pharmaceuticals and regenerative medicine. In the context of global healthcare challenges, creating biocompatible materials for tissue restoration and enhancing the bioavailability of drugs is a top priority. The KazNU research team has focused its efforts on the synthesis and characterization of new gelatin derivatives modified with unsaturated anhydrides to create innovative hydrogels. Gelatin, a natural polymer derived from collagen, possesses a unique set of properties: high biocompatibility, biodegradability, and a lack of immunogenicity. The presence of bioactive sequences, such as the arginine-glycine-aspartic acid (RGD) peptide, promotes cell adhesion and migration, making gelatin an ideal scaffold for tissue engineering and drug delivery systems. However, its medical use has been limited by low mechanical strength and instability at the physiological temperature of 37°C, where it dissolves rapidly. To overcome these limitations, the scientists applied chemical modification of the gelatin structure using methacrylic, crotonic, and itaconic anhydrides.

The synthesis of these new derivatives (Gelatin-MA, Gelatin-CA, and Gelatin-IA) is conducted at 50°C for 12 hours under continuous stirring. Following the reaction, the polymers are diluted with a phosphate-buffered saline (pH 7.40) to stop the process and purified via dialysis for 48 hours, ensuring the removal of all impurities and unreacted components. The purified products are then brought to a dry state using lyophilization. The scientific novelty of this research lies in the first comprehensive study of crotonoylated and itaconoylated gelatin derivatives as a base for hydrogels. The structure of the obtained materials is verified using IR and NMR spectroscopy, and the quantitative assessment of the degree of functional group substitution is performed using colorimetric TNBS analysis. Rheological studies include determining melting and gelation temperatures in the 0-40°C range, as well as analyzing the impact of pH levels on conformational changes through viscometry and Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS). Such an in-depth analysis allows for the prediction of the materials' behavior in biological environments and ensures their targeted application.

From a practical standpoint, the photo-crosslinked hydrogels produced using photoinitiators and ultraviolet (UV) radiation are capable of functioning as an equivalent to the natural extracellular matrix (ECM). The porosity of these materials is studied using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and mechanical strength is evaluated on texture analyzers. To study drug release kinetics, Franz diffusion cells are used, which allows for the regulation of the duration of the therapeutic effect. Biological evaluation involves the use of NIH-3T3 mouse fibroblasts and rat mesenchymal stem cells, where cell proliferation and migration are analyzed using modern tests such as Alamar blue, CCK-8, and Scratch assays. These studies are particularly important for increasing the efficiency of treating eye diseases like glaucoma and keratomycosis, where traditional drops deliver only 1–5% of the medication to the target area. The developments by KazNU scientists possess mucoadhesive properties, firmly attaching to the eye's mucous membrane, and, thanks to "in situ" gel formation technology, provide prolonged drug release.

The project's strategic importance is directly linked to the Head of State's directive to increase the share of domestic pharmaceutical production to 50%. International collaboration between KazNU and the University of Reading (UK) within this research boosts the global competitiveness of Kazakhstani science. The research group is taking a confident step toward improving medical services and creating a market for innovative biomaterials through this 2025-2027 project. The results will be published in prestigious international journals indexed in Scopus and Web of Science databases, attracting the attention of the global scientific community. This project is not only a theoretical quest but also a promising initiative offering concrete medical solutions to improve the quality of life for millions.