Oxidized Nanocarbons-Tripeptide Supramolecular Hydrogels: Shape Matters!

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Supramolecular Chemistry

Background:

• Short peptide hydrogels are promising biomaterials but often lack mechanical strength.
• Nanomaterials can enhance hydrogel properties and add functionalities like self-healing.
• Nanocarbons are particularly suitable for reinforcing peptide hydrogels for applications in tissue engineering and drug delivery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of nanocarbon morphology on peptide self-assembly.
• To evaluate the effect of different nanocarbons (1D CNTs, 2D GO, 3D CNHs) on the properties of short peptide hydrogels.
• To understand the interaction between peptides and nanocarbons during hydrogel formation.

Main Methods:

• Preparation of supramolecular hydrogels using a tripeptide (Leu-D-Phe-D-Phe) and three types of oxidized nanocarbons: carbon nanotubes (CNTs), graphene oxide (GO), and carbon nanohorns (CNHs).
• Characterization of hydrogel viscoelastic properties.
• Investigation of self-healing behavior.
• In solution and in silico studies of peptide-nanocarbon interactions.

Main Results:

• All tested nanocarbons formed supramolecular hydrogels with the tripeptide.
• Nanocarbons significantly increased hydrogel stiffness and resistance to stress.
• Self-healing properties were exclusively observed in hydrogels containing carbon nanotubes (CNTs).
• CNTs acted as nucleation templates, facilitating peptide self-assembly and reassembly.

Conclusions:

• Nanocarbon morphology critically influences peptide hydrogel self-assembly and properties.
• CNTs show unique potential for creating self-healing peptide hydrogels.
• These findings offer insights for designing advanced composite biomaterials with tailored functionalities.