Photopatternable, Branched Polymer Hydrogels Based on Linear Macromonomers for 3D Cell Culture Applications

Tong, C.; Wondergem, J.A.J.; Heinrich, D.; Kieltyka, R.E. (2020)

Article / Letter to editor

Photochemical ligation strategies in hydrogel materials are crucial to model spatiotemporal phenomena that occur in the natural extracellular matrix. We here describe the use of cyclic 1,2-dithiolanes to cross-link with norbornene on linear poly(ethylene glycol) polymers through UV irradiation in a rapid and byproduct-free manner, resulting in branched macromolecular architectures and hydrogel materials from low-viscosity precursor solutions. Oscillatory rheology and NMR data indicate the one-pot formation of thioether and disulfide cross-links. Spatial and temporal control of the hydrogel mechanical properties and functionality was demonstrated by oscillatory rheology and confocal microscopy. A cytocompatible response of NIH 3T3 fibroblasts was observed within these materials, providing a foothold for further exploration of this photoactive cross-linking moiety in the biomedical field.

• All authors: Tong, C.; Wondergem, J.A.J.; Heinrich, D.; Kieltyka, R.E.
• Date: 2020-06-01
• Journal: ACS Macro Letters
• Volume: 9
• Issue: 6
• Pages: 882 - 888
• DOI: doi:10.1021/acsmacrolett.0c00175