Supramolecular hydrogels with responsive rheological properties based on amphiphilic peptides and cyclodextrin-modified magnetic nanoparticles

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Hydrogels are unique materials that are largely composed of water yet macroscopically behave as solids. They contain porous three-dimensional polymer networks that can entrap an amount of water that greatly surpasses the polymer mass due to capillary effects and surface tension, without dissolving. Moreover, hydrogels have viscoelastic properties very similar to human tissue.The central aim of this project is the development of innovative supramolecular peptide hydrogels that have stimulus-responsive properties based on the integration of magnetite nanoparticles. In this project, we will investigate “double supramolecular” hydrogels, in which amphiphilic peptides stack in aqueous solution to form supramolecular polymers, which in addition cross-link due to host-guest interactions with cyclodextrin-modified magnetite nanoparticles. Using guest-modified peptides, we will prepare hydrogels that respond to an applied magnetic field and/or irradiation with UV and visible light, i.e. they become harder or softer, or even fluid. The hydrogels will be characterized in detail using rheological and magnetorheological experiments. Furthermore, using a combination of guest-modified peptides, magnetic hydrogels with a shape memory will be prepared. Ultimately, this project will lead to entirely new dynamic and responsive hydrogels that can be manipulated by external stimuli.