Synthesis and Characterization of GelMa Hydrogel: A Review

Gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA) hydrogels are one of the recent developed biocompatible and biodegradable hydrogels which have been widely applied for various bioengineering applications. The accurate understanding of synthesis parameters effect on the final GelMA properties could be helpful in designing a biomaterial with suitable biological properties and tunable physical characteristics. Generally, GelMA is synthesized through direct reaction of gelatin and methacrylic anhydride (MA), however, buffer type and polarity, initial pH, gelatin and MA concentration, stirring rate, reaction temperature and time have essential effects on the synthesized GelMA properties. GelMA could crosslink and form hydrogels by exposing to the ultraviolet irradiation. Although, GelMA hydrogel mechanical properties could be affected by ultraviolet irradiation parameters, initiator, and GelMA concentration. These variations in physical, mechanical and biological properties of GelMA candidate it in biomedical applications like tissue engineering, cell signaling, biosensing, and drug and gene delivery.