Embedding of active proteins and living cells in redox-sensitive hydrogels and nanogels through enzymatic cross-linking

Abstract

Horseradish peroxidase (HRP) can be used for the enzymatic cross-linking of thiol-functionalized polymers under mild conditions to form hydrogels and nanogels without the need for added H2O2. Cells can be embedded in the hydrogels and proteins can be entrapped and released from the nanogels. These gels are fully degradable under mild and cytocompatible reductive conditions. Copyright © 2013 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.