Studies on gelator molecule for the fabrication of alkali metal ion-based gels and drug delivery

Abstract

A novel low molecular weight gelator molecule G10 (5-(((1H-imidazol-2-yl) methylene)amino)isophthalic acid)) (MW-259) was synthesised from readily available materials in a single-step process. This molecule was characterized using various spectroscopic techniques, and the interaction between the molecules that aid in forming the gel was analyzed using FTIR and PXRD techniques. The organogel fabricated from this molecule exhibited stimulus responses towards metal ions and fluoride ions. Metallogels of this molecule with alkali metal ions were also fabricated. The rheological and thixotropic properties of the gels were also assessed. Additionally, G10-Dox organogel was fabricated from this molecule, which has injectable and self-healing properties for the delivery of the drug doxorubicin.