Triple Helical-Peptides: Collagen-Mimicking Tools for Tissue Engineering

Reproducing the biological cues naturally provided by collagen is a promising yet challenging approach to influence cell behavior in the field of tissue engineering. To mimic collagen, biomimetic peptides that self-assemble into the characteristic triple helix structure of collagen have been functionalized to biomaterials designed for tissue repair. These triple-helical peptides (THPs) contain recognition motifs for collagen-binding proteins (receptors expressed on the cell surface or secreted proteins), thus replicating the collagen interactions occurring in native tissues and triggering specific cellular responses. Here, we describe how THPs are synthesized, characterized, and covalently grafted into hydrogels commonly used in tissue engineering through two different approaches: maleimide conjugation and coupling using carbodiimides. This approach has led to significant improvements in cell adhesion, differentiation, function, and extracellular matrix deposition in biomaterials manufactured for regenerative medicine applications.