Enzyme-responsive hydrogels for biomedical applications

Abul-Haija, Yousef M. Y.M. and Ulijn, Rein V. R.V.; Connon, Che J and Hamley, Ian W, eds. (2014) Enzyme-responsive hydrogels for biomedical applications. In: Hydrogels in Cell-Based Therapies. Royal Society of Chemistry, London, pp. 112-134. ISBN 9781849737982 (https://doi.org/10.1039/9781782622055-00112)

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Abstract

This chapter highlights recent developments in enzyme-responsive gels. The focus is on peptide-based small-molecule hydrogels, for biomedical applications. The use of enzymes in this context provides a powerful methodology for controlled assembly, taking advantage of both biological selectivity and catalytic amplification. The building blocks for self-assembly and basic design rules for small molecule peptide gelators are discussed first. This is followed by a discussion of key features of biocatalytic self-assembly of hydrogels, focusing on control of nanoscale organization and consequent function. Finally, the potential applications of the enzyme-responsive hydrogels as biomaterials are discussed in the areas of cell culture, drug delivery, biosensing, and control of cell fate.