We present a protocol for the synthesis of RGD-functionalized hydrogels as devices for cell and drug delivery. The procedure involves copper catalyzed alkyne-azide cycloaddition (CuAAC) between alkyne-modified polyacrylic acid (PAA) and a RGD-azide derivative. The hydrogels are formed using microwave-assisted polycondensation and their physicochemical properties are investigated.
Mauri, E., Sacchetti, A., Rossi, F. The Synthesis of RGD-functionalized Hydrogels as a Tool for Therapeutic Applications. J. Vis. Exp. (116), e54445, doi:10.3791/54445 (2016).