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Protein-Nanoparticle Hydrogels That Self-assemble in Response to Peptide-Based Molecular Recognition
Andreina Parisi-Amon1, David D Lo2, Daniel T Montoro2
1Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States.
ACS Biomaterials Science & Engineering
|January 14, 2021
Summary
Engineered proteins and hydroxyapatite nanoparticles form novel hydrogels using specific peptide interactions. These advanced biomaterials offer tunable mechanics and self-healing for effective cell delivery in regenerative medicine.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Protein Engineering
- Regenerative Medicine
Background:
- Supramolecular hydrogels from polymer-nanoparticle (PNP) systems exhibit shear-thinning and self-healing properties.
- Existing PNP systems lack precise control over polymer-nanoparticle interactions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To engineer novel PNP hydrogels with direct control over polymer-nanoparticle interactions.
- To utilize peptide-based molecular recognition for tunable hydrogel assembly.
Main Methods:
- Designed a bifunctional peptide for hydroxyapatite nanoparticle and engineered protein interaction.
- Investigated hydrogel assembly dependence on specific molecular recognition using control peptides.
- Controlled hydrogel mechanical properties via peptide titration.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated specific molecular recognition is essential for hydrogel assembly.
- Achieved direct control over cross-link density and mechanical properties.
- Confirmed rapid shear-thinning and self-healing capabilities.
- Validated suitability for cell delivery in a murine calvarial defect model.
Conclusions:
- Introduced a new class of protein-engineered PNP hydrogels with tunable properties.
- Established peptide-based molecular recognition as a method for precise control in supramolecular assembly.
- Showcased potential for advanced biomaterials in regenerative medicine and cell therapy.
