Researchers at Penn State have developed a new biomaterial that mimics the behavior of biological tissues and extracellular matrices (ECMs), which could have significant implications for regenerative medicine, disease modeling, and soft robotics. The material, called acellular nanocomposite living hydrogels (LivGels), can mimic the mechanical stress responses of ECMs, including nonlinear strain-stiffening and self-healing properties. This was achieved by designing “hairy” nanoparticles with disordered cellulose chains that can bond with a biopolymeric matrix, allowing for dynamic bonding and strain-stiffening behavior. The LivGels have been shown to recover their structure after high strain, making them a promising material for various applications. The research was published in Materials Horizons and featured on the journal’s cover. The development of this material could lead to advancements in fields such as regenerative medicine, disease modeling, and soft robotics.
Innovative, self-sustaining biological materials hold promise for revolutionizing regenerative medicine and healing.
