Studies on the biodegradation and biocompatibility of a new poly(ester amide) derived from L-alanine

A new poly(ester amide) derived from L -alanine has been synthesized and characterized. The polymer has good fiber- and film-forming properties, as well as other characteristics like thermal stability and solubility in chloroform, which enhance its processing facilities. Degradation studies show that both pH and temperature influence in the hydrolisis rate that takes mainly place through the ester linkages. Degradation was also studied by using different enzymes. Results indicated that papain was the most efficient of these, and that the hydrolysis to water-soluble products could be attained in a few days. Basal cytotoxicity was assayed using a mouse L929 fibroblast permanent cell line. The MTT viability test was performed with liquid extract of the material (50 days, 37°C). An attachment and proliferation screening study with intact material was also carried out. No cytotoxic responses were detected, in either assay, after a 24- and 48-h incubation period with the cells. After 72 h a slight cytotoxicity was detected in the polymer material, while a more significant one was detected in the material extract. © 1998 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 69: 1537–1549, 1998