Tuning Protein Hydrogel Mechanics through Modulation of Nanoscale Unfolding and Entanglement in Postgelation Relaxation
Matt D. G. Hughes, Sophie Cussons, Najet Mahmoudi, David J. Brockwell, Lorna Dougan
Abstract
protein unfolding and entanglement provides an important route to finely tune the architecture, mechanics, and dynamic relaxation of protein hydrogels. Such predictive control will be advantageous for future smart biomaterials for applications which require responsive and dynamic modulation of mechanical properties and biological function.
Topics & Concepts
Quantum entanglementNanoscopic scaleMaterials scienceRelaxation (psychology)Modulation (music)NanotechnologyNanomechanicsQuantum mechanicsChemical physicsClassical mechanicsPhysicsAtomic force microscopyQuantumPsychologySocial psychologyAcousticsHydrogels: synthesis, properties, applicationsPolymer Surface Interaction StudiesProtein purification and stability