Living functional hydrogels generated by bioorthogonal cross-linking reactions of azide-modified cells with alkyne-modified polymers

2017 Fiscal Year Final Research Report

• Project/Area Number: 15K13791
• Research Category: Grant-in-Aid for Challenging Exploratory Research
• Allocation Type: Multi-year Fund
• Research Field: Polymer/Textile materials
• Research Institution: Konan University
• Principal Investigator: NAGAHAMA Koji 甲南大学, フロンティアサイエンス学部, 准教授 (00551847)
• Project Period (FY): 2015-04-01 – 2018-03-31
• Keywords: ハイドロゲル / 細胞 / バイオマテリアル

Outline of Final Research Achievements

In this study, we show a concept for utilizing cells and their functions from the viewpoint of materials science. In particular, we develop cell cross-linked living bulk hydrogels by bioorthogonal click cross-linking reactions of azide-modified mammalian cells with alkyne-modified biocompatible polymers. Importantly, we demonstrate the unique functionalities of the living hydrogels, originating from the basic functions of the cells incorporated in the living hydrogels as active cross-linking points. Moreover, we demonstrate potential application of the cell cross-linked hydrogels as injectable gels for tissue engineering. As this method can be applied to bacteria and viruses because their surfaces can be modified by metabolic glycoengineering, the findings of this study provide a promising route to the generation of living cell-based next-generation innovative materials, technologies, and medicines.

Free Research Field

高分子化学、生体材料学