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Patra S, Chandrabhas S, Dhiman S, George SJ. Controlled Supramolecular Polymerization via Bioinspired, Liquid-Liquid Phase Separation of Monomers. J Am Chem Soc 2024; 146:12577-12586. [PMID: 38683934 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.4c01377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
Dynamic supramolecular assemblies, driven by noncovalent interactions, pervade the biological realm. In the synthetic domain, their counterparts, supramolecular polymers, endowed with remarkable self-repair and adaptive traits, are often realized through bioinspired designs. Recently, controlled supramolecular polymerization strategies have emerged, drawing inspiration from protein self-assembly. A burgeoning area of research involves mimicking the liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) observed in proteins to create coacervate droplets and recognizing their significance in cellular organization and diverse functions. Herein, we introduce a novel perspective on synthetic coacervates, extending beyond their established role in synthetic biology as dynamic, membraneless phases to enable structural control in synthetic supramolecular polymers. Drawing parallels with the cooperative growth of amyloid fibrils through LLPS, we present metastable coacervate droplets as dormant monomer phases for controlled supramolecular polymerization. This is achieved via a π-conjugated monomer design that combines structural characteristics for both coacervation through its terminal ionic groups and one-dimensional growth via a π-conjugated core. This design leads to a unique temporal LLPS, resulting in a metastable coacervate phase, which subsequently undergoes one-dimensional growth via nucleation within the droplets. In-depth spectroscopic and microscopic characterization provides insights into the temporal evolution of disordered and ordered phases. Furthermore, to modulate the kinetics of liquid-to-solid transformation and to achieve precise control over the structural characteristics of the resulting supramolecular polymers, we invoke seeding in the droplets, showcasing living growth characteristics. Our work thus opens up new avenues in the exciting field of supramolecular polymerization, offering general design principles and controlled synthesis of precision self-assembled structures in confined environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satyajit Patra
- New Chemistry Unit and School of Advanced Materials (SAMat), Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research (JNCASR), Jakkur, Bangalore 560064, India
| | - Sushmitha Chandrabhas
- New Chemistry Unit and School of Advanced Materials (SAMat), Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research (JNCASR), Jakkur, Bangalore 560064, India
| | - Shikha Dhiman
- New Chemistry Unit and School of Advanced Materials (SAMat), Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research (JNCASR), Jakkur, Bangalore 560064, India
| | - Subi J George
- New Chemistry Unit and School of Advanced Materials (SAMat), Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research (JNCASR), Jakkur, Bangalore 560064, India
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Ranganath VA, Maity I. Artificial Homeostasis Systems Based on Feedback Reaction Networks: Design Principles and Future Promises. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2024; 63:e202318134. [PMID: 38226567 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202318134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Revised: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 01/17/2024]
Abstract
Feedback-controlled chemical reaction networks (FCRNs) are indispensable for various biological processes, such as cellular mechanisms, patterns, and signaling pathways. Through the intricate interplay of many feedback loops (FLs), FCRNs maintain a stable internal cellular environment. Currently, creating minimalistic synthetic cells is the long-term objective of systems chemistry, which is motivated by such natural integrity. The design, kinetic optimization, and analysis of FCRNs to exhibit functions akin to those of a cell still pose significant challenges. Indeed, reaching synthetic homeostasis is essential for engineering synthetic cell components. However, maintaining homeostasis in artificial systems against various agitations is a difficult task. Several biological events can provide us with guidelines for a conceptual understanding of homeostasis, which can be further applicable in designing artificial synthetic systems. In this regard, we organize our review with artificial homeostasis systems driven by FCRNs at different length scales, including homogeneous, compartmentalized, and soft material systems. First, we stretch a quick overview of FCRNs in different molecular and supramolecular systems, which are the essential toolbox for engineering different nonlinear functions and homeostatic systems. Moreover, the existing history of synthetic homeostasis in chemical and material systems and their advanced functions with self-correcting, and regulating properties are also emphasized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinay Ambekar Ranganath
- Centre for Nano and Material Sciences, Jain (Deemed-to-be University), Jain Global Campus, Bangalore, 562112, Karnataka, India
| | - Indrajit Maity
- Centre for Nano and Material Sciences, Jain (Deemed-to-be University), Jain Global Campus, Bangalore, 562112, Karnataka, India
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Guo X, Li J, Wu Y, Xu L. Recent advancements in hydrogels as novel tissue engineering scaffolds for dental pulp regeneration. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 264:130708. [PMID: 38460622 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.130708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2023] [Revised: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/11/2024]
Abstract
Although conventional root canal treatment offers an effective therapeutic solution, it negatively affects the viability of the affected tooth. In recent years, pulp regeneration technology has emerged as a novel method for treating irreversible pulpitis due to its ability to maintain tooth vitality. The successful implementation of this technique depends on scaffolds and transplantation of exogenous stem cells or recruitment of endogenous stem cells. Accordingly, the three-dimensional structure and viscoelastic characteristics of hydrogel scaffolds, which parallel those of the extracellular matrix, have generated considerable interest. Furthermore, hydrogels support the controlled release of regenerative drugs and to load a wide variety of bioactive molecules. By integrating antibacterial agents into the hydrogel matrix and stimulating an immune response, root canal disinfection can be significantly improved and the rate of pulp regeneration can be accelerated. This review aims to provide an overview of the clinical applications of hydrogels that have been reported in the last 5 years, and offer a comprehensive summary of the different approaches that have been utilized for the optimization of hydrogel scaffolds for pulp regeneration. Advancements and challenges in pulp regeneration using hydrogels treating aged teeth are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaofei Guo
- Xiangya Shool of Stomatology, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Jiaxuan Li
- Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410083, China
| | - Yong Wu
- Department of Nephrology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Key Laboratory of Kidney Disease and Blood Purification, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Laijun Xu
- Stomatological Hospital, School of Stomatology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510280, China; School of Stomatology, Changsha Medical University, Changsha, Hunan 410219, China.
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Zhao P, Xu L, Li B, Zhao Y, Zhao Y, Lu Y, Cao M, Li G, Weng TC, Wang H, Zheng Y. Non-Equilibrium Assembly of Atomically-Precise Copper Nanoclusters. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024:e2311818. [PMID: 38294175 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202311818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Revised: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
Accurate structure control in dissipative assemblies (DSAs) is vital for precise biological functions. However, accuracy and functionality of artificial DSAs are far from this objective. Herein, a novel approach is introduced by harnessing complex chemical reaction networks rooted in coordination chemistry to create atomically-precise copper nanoclusters (CuNCs), specifically Cu11(µ9-Cl)(µ3-Cl)3L6Cl (L = 4-methyl-piperazine-1-carbodithioate). Cu(I)-ligand ratio change and dynamic Cu(I)-Cu(I) metallophilic/coordination interactions enable the reorganization of CuNCs into metastable CuL2, finally converting into equilibrium [CuL·Y]Cl (Y = MeCN/H2O) via Cu(I) oxidation/reorganization and ligand exchange process. Upon adding ascorbic acid (AA), the system goes further dissipative cycles. It is observed that the encapsulated/bridging halide ions exert subtle influence on the optical properties of CuNCs and topological changes of polymeric networks when integrating CuNCs as crosslink sites. CuNCs duration/switch period could be controlled by varying the ions, AA concentration, O2 pressure and pH. Cu(I)-Cu(I) metallophilic and coordination interactions provide a versatile toolbox for designing delicate life-like materials, paving the way for DSAs with precise structures and functionalities. Furthermore, CuNCs can be employed as modular units within polymers for materials mechanics or functionalization studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Zhao
- School of Physical Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, 201210, China
| | - Linjie Xu
- School of Physical Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, 201210, China
| | - Bohan Li
- School of Physical Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, 201210, China
| | - Yuanfeng Zhao
- School of Physical Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, 201210, China
| | - Yingshuai Zhao
- School of Physical Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, 201210, China
| | - Yan Lu
- School of Physical Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, 201210, China
| | - Minghui Cao
- School of Physical Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, 201210, China
| | - Guoqi Li
- School of Physical Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, 201210, China
| | - Tsu-Chien Weng
- School of Physical Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, 201210, China
- State Key Laboratory of Functional Materials for Informatics, Shanghai Institute of Microsystem and Information Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200050, China
| | - Heng Wang
- College of Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518060, China
| | - Yijun Zheng
- School of Physical Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, 201210, China
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Senebandith H, Li D, Srivastava S. Advances, Applications, and Emerging Opportunities in Electrostatic Hydrogels. LANGMUIR : THE ACS JOURNAL OF SURFACES AND COLLOIDS 2023; 39:16965-16974. [PMID: 37976453 DOI: 10.1021/acs.langmuir.3c02255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
Polyelectrolyte complex (PEC) hydrogels, which self-assemble via complexation of oppositely charged block polymers, have recently risen to prominence owing to their unique characteristics such as hierarchical microstructure, tunable bulk properties, and the ability to precisely assimilate charged cargos (i.e., proteins and nucleic acids). Significant foundational research has delineated the structure-property relationship of PEC hydrogels for use in a wide range of applications. In this Perspective, we summarize key findings on the microstructure and bulk properties of PEC hydrogels and discuss how intrinsic and extrinsic factors can be tuned to create specifically tailored PEC hydrogels with desired properties. We highlight successful applications of PEC hydrogels while offering insight into strategies to overcome their shortcomings and elaborate on emerging opportunities in the field of electrostatic self-assemblies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Holly Senebandith
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095, United States
| | - Defu Li
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095, United States
| | - Samanvaya Srivastava
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095, United States
- California NanoSystems Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095, United States
- Institute for Carbon Management, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095, United States
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Spitzbarth B, Eelkema R. Chemical reaction networks based on conjugate additions on β'-substituted Michael acceptors. Chem Commun (Camb) 2023; 59:11174-11187. [PMID: 37529876 PMCID: PMC10508045 DOI: 10.1039/d3cc02126b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/03/2023]
Abstract
Over the last few decades, the study of more complex, chemical systems closer to those found in nature, and the interactions within those systems, has grown immensely. Despite great efforts, the need for new, versatile, and robust chemistry to apply in CRNs remains. In this Feature Article, we give a brief overview over previous developments in the field of systems chemistry and how β'-substituted Michael acceptors (MAs) can be a great addition to the systems chemist's toolbox. We illustrate their versatility by showcasing a range of examples of applying β'-substituted MAs in CRNs, both as chemical signals and as substrates, to open up the path to many applications ranging from responsive materials, to pathway control in CRNs, drug delivery, analyte detection, and beyond.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Spitzbarth
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Delft University of Technology, Van der Maasweg 9, 2629 HZ Delft, The Netherlands.
| | - Rienk Eelkema
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Delft University of Technology, Van der Maasweg 9, 2629 HZ Delft, The Netherlands.
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Zhang Z, Bi F, Guo W. Research Advances on Hydrogel-Based Materials for Tissue Regeneration and Remineralization in Tooth. Gels 2023; 9:gels9030245. [PMID: 36975694 PMCID: PMC10048036 DOI: 10.3390/gels9030245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2023] [Revised: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Tissue regeneration and remineralization in teeth is a long-term and complex biological process, including the regeneration of pulp and periodontal tissue, and re-mineralization of dentin, cementum and enamel. Suitable materials are needed to provide cell scaffolds, drug carriers or mineralization in this environment. These materials need to regulate the unique odontogenesis process. Hydrogel-based materials are considered good scaffolds for pulp and periodontal tissue repair in the field of tissue engineering due to their inherent biocompatibility and biodegradability, slow release of drugs, simulation of extracellular matrix, and the ability to provide a mineralized template. The excellent properties of hydrogels make them particularly attractive in the research of tissue regeneration and remineralization in teeth. This paper introduces the latest progress of hydrogel-based materials in pulp and periodontal tissue regeneration and hard tissue mineralization and puts forward prospects for their future application. Overall, this review reveals the application of hydrogel-based materials in tissue regeneration and remineralization in teeth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhijun Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
- National Engineering Laboratory for Oral Regenerative Medicine, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
- Department of Pediatric Dentistry, West China School of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Fei Bi
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
- National Engineering Laboratory for Oral Regenerative Medicine, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Weihua Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
- National Engineering Laboratory for Oral Regenerative Medicine, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
- Department of Pediatric Dentistry, West China School of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Stomatology, The Affiliated Hospital of Stomatology, School of Stomatology, Kunming Medical University, Kunming 650500, China
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