In vitro response to functionalized self-assembled peptide scaffolds for three-dimensional cell culture.
Nanomaterials are rich in potential, particularly for the formation of scaffolds that mimic the landscape of the host environment of the cell. This niche arises from the spatial organization of a series of biochemical and biomechanical signals. Self-assembling peptides have emerged as an important tool in the development of functional (bio-)nanomaterials; these simple, easily synthesized subunits form structures which present the properties of these larger, more complex systems. Scaffolds based upon these nanofibrous matrices are promising materials for regenerative medicine as part of a new methodology in scaffold design where a "bottom-up" approach is used in order to simulate the native cellular milieu. Importantly, SAPs hold the potential to be bioactive through the presentation of biochemical and biomechanical signals in a context similar to the natural extracellular matrix, making them ideal targets for providing structural and chemical support in a cellular context. Here, we discuss a new methodology for the presentation of biologically relevant epitopes through their effective presentation on the surface of the nanofibers. Here, we demonstrate that these signals have a direct effect on the viability of cells within a three-dimensional matrix as compared with an unfunctionalized, yet mechanically and morphologically similar system.
Center for Chemistry and Biotechnology, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, VIC, 3217, Australia; School of Medicine, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, VIC, 3217, Australia.
Vengama N
VN
Modepalli
Alexandra L
AL
Rodriguez
Rui
R
Li
Sivapriya
S
Pavuluri
Kevin R
KR
Nicholas
Colin J
CJ
Barrow
David R
DR
Nisbet
Richard J
RJ
Williams
D001940:Breast / Q000166:cytology; D018929:Cell Culture Techniques / Q000379:methods*; D005260:Female; D005347:Fibroblasts / Q000166:cytology / Q000187:drug effects; D006801:Humans; D020136:Hydrogel, Polyethylene Glycol Dimethacrylate; D053758:Nanoparticles / Q000648:ultrastructure; D010455:Peptides / Q000737:chemistry / Q000494:pharmacology*; D012212:Rheology; D054457:Tissue Scaffolds / Q000737:chemistry*
D010455:Peptides; D020136:Hydrogel, Polyethylene Glycol Dimethacrylate
hydrogels; nanostructures; peptides; scaffolds; self-assembly