Photoisomerization of Provitamin D in Hydrogel Matrix

Study of interfacial processes between incorporated biomolecules and hydrogel matrix is of primary importance for the application of synthetic hydrogels as biomaterials, sensors, etc. Their hydrophilic nature, however, hampers fat-soluble biomolecule incorporation. We synthesized N-isopropylacrylamide (NIPAAm)-and Acrylamide (AA)-based hydrogels with hydrophilic-lipophilic balance that under specific conditions permit homogeneous incorporation of provitamins D 3 (7-dehydrocholesterol) and D 2 (ergosterol) dissolved in ethanol. Similarity of provitamins D photoisomerization in such hydrogel matrices with the photoreaction in ethanol shows great potential of the novel material for personal dosimetry of biologically active 'antirachitic' UV radiation.