Polysaccharide-based polyionic liquids and their biomedical applications

In this thesis, 3D-structured cross-linked microgels were synthesized from a polysaccharide, pectin, using reverse micelle microemulsion polymerization. New functional groups were introduced into the synthesized microgels by post-modification to improve their performance in applications and to tailor their structures for specific applications. In addition, magnetic properties have been imparted to the microgels, allowing them to be controlled by magnetic field in applications. One of the important steps in this work was to convert the synthesized pectin microgels into polymeric ionic liquid forms using protonation and ion exchange chemistry. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA), zeta potential (ZP) measurement, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy were used to characterize pectin microgels and modified forms. Ultraviolet-isible light (UV-Vis) spectrophotometry was used to analyze drug loading and release profiles. The microgels and their modified forms were further evaluated for antimicrobial activity, antioxidant activity, biocompatibility/cytotoxicity, degradation, and potential use as drug delivery systems to explore their application in the biomedical field. The polysaccharide-based micro-sized 3D polymer structures obtained in the thesis study can be designed specifically for the application, performance-enhancing properties can be added to the structure by post-modification, and PIL forms can be prepared. It is believed that the synthesised microgels can be used in many different fields. The structures prepared within the scope of this work are considered particularly suitable for applications in the healthcare sector, such as soft tissue applications, biosensors, carrier systems for bioactive species, and cancer treatment.