Simple conditions for large morphological variations in thermoresponsive biopolymeric microstructures

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Polymer Chemistry
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Elastin-like polypeptides (ELPs) are advanced biopolymers with tunable properties.
• Thermoresponsive materials change characteristics with temperature.
• Controlling microstructure properties is key for advanced applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop novel thermoresponsive biopolymeric microstructures.
• To investigate the relationship between ELP processing temperature and microstructure pore behavior.
• To explore the potential of ELP microstructures for temperature-sensitive applications.

Main Methods:

• Emulsification of elastin-like polypeptides (ELPs).
• Preparation of ELP microbeads and microcapsules below, above, and at the transition temperature (Tt).
• Characterization of microstructure pore response to temperature variations.

Main Results:

• Microbeads prepared below Tt showed positively thermoresponsive pores (pores expand with increasing temperature).
• Microcapsules prepared above Tt exhibited negatively thermoresponsive pores (pores shrink with increasing temperature).
• Microcapsules prepared at the transition state displayed bidirectional thermoresponsive pore behavior.

Conclusions:

• ELP processing temperature precisely controls microstructure pore thermoresponsiveness.
• Tunable thermoresponsive behavior in ELP microstructures is achievable.
• These findings pave the way for advanced smart materials with tailored thermal responses.