Enantiomer-Dependent Supramolecular Immunosuppressive Modulation for Tissue Reconstruction

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Immunology
• Tissue Engineering

Background:

• Biomaterial properties influencing immune response are key for tissue repair.
• The role of cellular microenvironment in chiral immune responses remains unclear.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate chiral tetrapeptide (FFFK) supramolecular polymers for immunosuppressive modulation.
• To elucidate the mechanism of FFFK in regulating macrophage polarization for tissue regeneration.

Main Methods:

• In vivo and in vitro studies using chiral tetrapeptide (Ac-FFFK-OH) supramolecular polymers.
• Analysis of macrophage polarization (M1/M2) and related signaling pathways (Src-STAT6, EGR2).

Main Results:

• Chiral FFFK nanofibers upregulated M2 macrophage polarization via the Src-STAT6 axis.
• STAT6 initiated M2 polarization, with EGR2 sustaining it.
• L-chirality of FFFK demonstrated a more potent effect on M2 polarization and tissue reconstruction compared to D-chirality.

Conclusions:

• Chiral FFFK nanofibers offer a strategy for immunosuppressive modulation by promoting M2 macrophage polarization.
• The findings highlight the importance of chirality in supramolecular biomaterials for tissue repair.
• This research provides a basis for designing chiral self-assembling peptides to enhance tissue regeneration.