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Biomimetic Extracellular Scaffolds by Microfluidic Superstructuring of Nanofibers
Jack Kolberg-Edelbrock1,2, Thomas J Cotey1, Steven Y Ma1
1Department of Materials Science and Engineering, McCormick School of Engineering, Northwestern University, 2220 Campus Drive, Room 2036, Evanston, Illinois 60208-0893, United States.
ACS Biomaterials Science & Engineering
|February 22, 2023
Summary
Researchers created novel "superbundles" (SBs), mimicking the extracellular matrix using peptide amphiphile nanofibers. These biocompatible microgels effectively encapsulate proteins, offering potential for advanced biomedical applications.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Tissue Engineering
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- The extracellular matrix (ECM) provides critical cues for cellular functions.
- Artificial ECM analogs are highly sought after for biomedical applications.
- Peptide amphiphiles (PAs) self-assemble into nanofiber networks with tunable properties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop hierarchical, ECM-mimetic microgels termed "superbundles" (SBs).
- To investigate the influence of fabrication parameters on SB formation.
- To assess the cargo encapsulation and biocompatibility of SBs.
Main Methods:
- Utilized flow-focusing microfluidics to create SBs from PA nanofibers.
- Varied flow rate ratio and PA concentration to control SB morphology.
- Characterized SB structure and morphology.
- Evaluated protein encapsulation efficiency across a range of isoelectric points.
- Assessed the biocompatibility of the novel SB hydrogels.
Main Results:
- Successfully fabricated hierarchical SBs with ECM-like morphology.
- Established design rules for creating SBs with both cationic and anionic PA nanofibers.
- Demonstrated efficient encapsulation and retention of proteinaceous cargos.
- Confirmed that SB morphology does not compromise the inherent biocompatibility of PA gels.
Conclusions:
- Hierarchical peptide amphiphile microgels (SBs) effectively mimic the extracellular matrix.
- SBs offer a tunable platform for controlled protein delivery.
- The developed microfluidic method enables precise control over SB fabrication.
- SBs represent a promising biomaterial for diverse biomedical applications due to their structural mimicry and biocompatibility.
