Synthetic polymer gels hydrogen bond networks

The hydrophilic groups on mucoadhesive polymers and the large amount of water associated with mucin present two possible adhesion mechanisms (i) hydrogen bonding and (ii) interpenetration of a swollen gel network with hydrated mucin. Many methods have been used for the assessment of bioadhesive properties, including fluorescent techniques and tensile tests. By using these methods, a number of natural and synthetic polymers have been discovered possessing mucoadhesive properties. 

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