From molecules to function
Complex functional molecular systems – central to systems chemistry – lie at the core of advanced biomaterials. In his thesis, Kirill Mikhailov investigates how dynamic covalent chemistry and supramolecular self assembly can be harnessed to create peptide based self replicating fibers, which can be used to create both cell-instructive hydrogel scaffolds and systems of chemical self-replicators for studying evolutionary scenarios.
Mikhailov used the supramolecular peptide-based hydrogels derived from these fibers as versatile platforms for the incorporation of biochemical and biomechanical stimuli in the scaffold matrix in order to influence the behaviour of cultured cells through material-derived cues. Application of the developed supramolecular hydrogels as 3D cell scaffolds and as 3D bioinks showed promising results; however, the ultimate use of the hydrogels for these purposes requires further research and optimization.
Lastly, Mikhailov applied the developed self-replicating fibers to create systems of chemical self-replicators, which he used to study a Lamarckian evolution scenario. Overall, the thesis demonstrates the versatility of the systems chemistry approach for creating functional molecular systems and for biomaterial design.