Stable Protein‐Based G‐Quadruplex‐Derived Supramolecular Bioinks as Tunable ECM‐Mimetic Constructs Assembled by Combining Non‐Covalent and Covalent Strategies

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Authors: Vera Sousa, Rita Sobreiro‐Almeida, Bart W. L. van den Bersselaar, E. W. Meijer, Ghislaine Vantomme, João Borges, João F. Mano
Cited by: 2
References: 186

Abstract

G-quadruplex hydrogels hold great promise for biofabrication owing to their dynamic supramolecular nature, provided their inherent instability under physiological conditions is overcome. Here, a bioinspired strategy that synergistically combines supramolecular self-assembly, under macromolecular crowding conditions, with in-bath enzymatic covalent crosslinking was employed to create stable, protein-based G-quadruplex-derived hydrogels. Mimicking the crowded intracellular milieu, the addition of Ficoll enhances G-quadruplex stability and tunes the rheological behavior, while transglutaminase-mediated crosslinking reinforces the network, preserving its structural integrity over extended periods. This combined approach yields printable bioinks with optimal viscosity, yield stress, and shear-thinning properties, enabling the fabrication of complex, multilayered 3D constructs that support enhanced cell viability and proliferation within an extracellular matrix (ECM)-mimetic fibrillar environment. Moreover, the modulation of the crosslinking density allows controlling cellular responses, offering a versatile platform for tailoring the biomechanical microenvironment. This study establishes a new class of hybrid G-quadruplex hydrogel bioinks, exhibiting unprecedented stability under physiological conditions, biofunctionality, and off-the-shelf availability, unlocking their potential for advanced tissue engineering and regenerative medicine strategies.

Fields of Study & Subjects

3D Printing in Biomedical Research Hydrogels: synthesis properties applications Supramolecular Self-Assembly in Materials

Publication details

Journal / source
Advanced Materials
Publisher
Wiley
Volume
38
Issue
44
Pages
e21259–e21259
Publication date
8 April 2026
Language
EN