Reinforcing supramolecular hyaluronan hydrogels via kinetically interlocking multiple-units strategy.

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Polymer Chemistry
• Supramolecular Chemistry

Background:

• Supramolecular hydrogels offer unique dynamic properties valuable for biological and clinical applications.
• Poor mechanical strength in current hydrogels limits their practical use.
• Developing robust supramolecular hydrogels is crucial for expanding their therapeutic potential.

Purpose of the Study:

• To enhance the mechanical properties of supramolecular hydrogels.
• To investigate the Kinetically Interlocking Multiple-Units (KIMU) strategy for hydrogel reinforcement.
• To preserve the intrinsic dynamic characteristics of hydrogels while improving strength.

Main Methods:

• Application of the Kinetically Interlocking Multiple-Units (KIMU) strategy to hyaluronan networks.
• Introduction of organized and alternative supramolecular interaction motifs.
• Characterization of crosslinker dissociation energy and storage modulus.

Main Results:

• Successfully elevated the energy barrier of crosslinker dissociation to 103.0 kJ mol⁻¹.
• Increased the storage modulus of the hydrogels by 78%.
• Maintained the intrinsic dynamic properties of the supramolecular hydrogels.

Conclusions:

• The KIMU strategy provides a convenient and effective method for fabricating supramolecular materials.
• This approach yields hydrogels with significantly improved mechanical properties.
• Enhanced supramolecular hydrogels hold promise for advanced biological and clinical applications.