Synthesis and evaluation of α-cyclodextrin-aldonamide conjugates for D-glucose recognition

A small library of α-cyclodextrin aldonamide (CDA) conjugates has been synthesized and their glucose sensing behavior examined. The partially substituted aldonamides of α-cyclodextrin were found to recognize glucose, but were unable to form the hydrogel. However, the solution of hexaaldonamides of α-cyclodextrin transformed into a hydrogel upon complexation with glucose. SEM studies revealed the presence of fibrous, intertwined, reticulate networks in the hydrogels. This type of glucose-sensitive hydrogel may be useful in developing glucose-sensors and glucose-sensitive drug delivery systems.