Modulating the gelation properties of self-assembling peptide amphiphiles.

ABSTRACT: Peptide amphiphiles (PAs) are self-assembling molecules that form interwoven nanofiber gel networks. They have gained a lot of attention because of their excellent biocompatibility, adaptable peptide structure that allows for specific biochemical functionality, and nanofibrous assembly that mimics natural tissue formation. However, variations in molecule length, charge, and intermolecular bonding between different bioactive PAs cause contrasting mechanical properties. This potentially limits cell-delivery therapies because scaffold durability is needed to withstand the rigors of clinician handling and transport to wound implant sites. Additionally, the mechanical properties have critical influence on cellular behavior, as the elasticity and stiffness of biomaterials have been shown to affe

SUBMITTER: Anderson JM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2787687 | biostudies-literature | 2009 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature