Xanthan gum regulates printability and antibiotic-release capacity of composite carboxymethyl cellulose hydrogels

Carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) and xanthan gum (XG) are promising polysaccharides for hydrogel fabrication in 3D bioprinting and controlled drug delivery. Due to the complex polymer structure of these hydrogels and their ability to swell, a prolonged release of drugs is possible. This study aimed to evaluate different ratios of CMC and XG for fabrication of composite hydrogels with extrusion-based 3D printing. The printability, filament fusion, and post-printing shape retention of hydrogels containing various ratios of CMC and XG (0.5:2, 1:1, 1:2, 2:1) as well as swelling, degradation, and release of vancomycin hydrochloride were analyzed. The viability of Vero cells was also assessed at 1:2 and 2:1 ratio. Using a ratio of CMC and XG of 1:2 or 2:1 was critical for achieving optimal printability, characterized by the improved printing resolution and enhanced shape retention. Consistent vancomycin hydrochloride release with the prolonged antimicrobial activity over 9 days was evident for 1:2 ratio. Viability of Vero cells was lower for both 1:2 and 2:1 ratio compared to control and in 1:2 alone. Consistent drug release and appropriate printability of these hydrogels, particularly at the 1:2 ratio, warrant their further investigation and improvement.