Biocompatibility Analysis of Embelia ribes–Loaded Hydrogel Using Cell Viability and Hemocompatibility Assays: An In Vitro Study

Abstract

Introduction: Embelia ribes Burm. F, also known as false black pepper, is used for an array of medicinal applications. Cell viability assays are essential for evaluating the biocompatibility of novel biomaterials intended for biomedical applications. A hydrogel was formulated incorporating Embelia ribes silver nanoparticles and hyaluronic acid, with hydroxy methylcellulose serving as a carrier.

Objectives: To assess the in vitro cytocompatibility of indigenously developed Embelia ribes-based hydrogel formulations, with and without silver nanoparticles, using cell viability and Hemocompatibility test on fibroblast cells to determine their potential suitability for biomedical and endodontic applications.

Methods Hydrogel Formulation primarily comprises seed formulation of Embelia ribes mediated silver nanoparticles (3%), Hyaluronic acid(3%), hydroxethyl cellulose (3%)in the ratio of 1:1:1. The hydrogel was then subjected to the above-mentioned biocompatibility tests.

Results: MTT and Live/Dead assays demonstrated that both E. ribes extract and E. ribes-AgNP hydrogels were         highly biocompatible, maintaining fibroblast viability above 75% even at 300 µg/mL. Haemolysis analysis showed minimal red blood cell damage (<3%), indicating strong hemocompatibility. Notably, the E. ribes-AgNP hydrogel exhibited slightly enhanced cytocompatibility compared to the extract alone.

Conclusions: Excellent biocompatibility and hemocompatibility were proven by the E. ribes-AgNP hydrogel, which makes it a viable option for upcoming biomedical applications.