DOPA-Based poly(ester amide)s−A Tunable Biomimetic Approach for Surgical Adhesive Design

Abstract

Abstract Novel biomimetic surgical adhesives were prepared in this work by the straightforward incorporation of L-3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine (DOPA) in poly(ester amide)s (PEAs). A library of DOPA-based PEAs (DOPA-PEAs) with varying compositions was successfully synthesized by solution polycondensation (SPC), while preserving the catechol functionality without requiring protection/deprotection steps. Thermal analyses revealed that introducing different hydrophilic moieties and increasing molecular weight enhanced both thermal stability and glass transition temperatures (Tg). In vitro enzymatic degradation studies demonstrated tunable biodegradability, with degradation profiles suitable for supporting the early stages of wound healing. Adhesive formulations were prepared as liquid glues and tested directly on two distinct ex vivo tissues, dermis and liver, exhibiting comparable or superior wet adhesion to the commercial cyanoacrylate reference, Dermabond. Cytocompatibility assays using human dermal fibroblasts confirmed that selected adhesives supported cell viability, proliferation, and adhesion more effectively than Dermabond. Overall, the results highlight the versatility of DOPA-PEAs as biomimetic surgical adhesives with customizable structure−property relationships, enabling strong, moisture-resistant tissue adhesion and favourable biological compatibility.