Cation-induced shape programming and morphing in protein-based hydrogels

Luai R. Khoury, Marina Slawinski, Daniel R. Collison, Ionel Popa

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

49 Scopus citations

Abstract

Smart materials that are capable of memorizing a temporary shape, and morph in response to a stimulus, have the potential to revolutionize medicine and robotics. Here, we introduce an innovative method to program protein hydrogels and to induce shape changes in aqueous solutions at room temperature. We demonstrate our approach using hydrogels made from serum albumin, the most abundant protein in the blood plasma, which are synthesized in a cylindrical or flower shape. These gels are then programmed into a spring or a ring shape, respectively. The programming is performed through a marked change in stiffness (of up to 17-fold), induced by adsorption of Zn2+ or Cu2+ cations. We show that these programmed biomaterials can then morph back into their original shape, as the cations diffuse outside the hydrogel material. The approach demonstrated here represents an innovative strategy to program protein-based hydrogels to behave as actuators.

Original languageEnglish
Article numbereaba6112
JournalScience advances
Volume6
Issue number18
DOIs
StatePublished - 1 Apr 2020
Externally publishedYes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General

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