Injectable and Cytocompatible Tough Double-Network Hydrogels through Tandem Supramolecular and Covalent Crosslinking.

Rodell, Christopher B; Dusaj, Neville N; Highley, Christopher B; Burdick, Jason A · Adv Mater · 2016

basic_science · Level V

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Abstract

Double-network theory is extended to include guest-host interactions, enabling injectability and cytcompatibility of tough hydrogels. Noncovalent interactions are used as a sacrificial network to toughen covalently crosslinked hydrogels formed from hyaluronic acid. Shear thinning of supramolecular bonds allows hydrogel injection and rapid self-healing, while gentle reaction conditions permit cell encapsulation with high viability.