Rapid cross-linking of elastin-like polypeptides with (hydroxymethyl)phosphines in aqueous solution

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Polymer Chemistry
• Tissue Engineering

Background:

• Injectable polypeptide-based materials offer minimally invasive implantation for biomaterials and tissue engineering.
• In situ gelation is crucial for developing advanced scaffolds and delivery systems.

Purpose of the Study:

• To demonstrate the rapid in situ formation of chemically cross-linked elastin-like polypeptide (ELP) hydrogels.
• To investigate the biocompatibility and mechanical properties of THPP-cross-linked ELP hydrogels.

Main Methods:

• Lysine-containing ELPs were reacted with beta-[tris(hydroxymethyl)phosphino]propionic acid (THPP) under physiological conditions.
• Mechanical properties were modulated by varying lysine concentration and pH.
• Fibroblast viability and proliferation within hydrogels were assessed via cell culture and DNA quantification.

Main Results:

• Rapid formation of cross-linked ELP hydrogels was achieved using THPP.
• Hydrogel mechanical properties were tunable based on ELP lysine content and reaction pH.
• Embedded fibroblasts remained viable and showed no significant DNA loss over 3 days of in vitro culture.

Conclusions:

• THPP cross-linking is a viable and biocompatible strategy for in situ hydrogel formation.
• These ELP hydrogels show promise for applications in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.