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Zhong Y, Yu Y, Peng Y, Su Z, Mao Y, Chen Y, Wang L, Xin M, Li M. Construction of Schiff base dynamically cross-linked pH-responsive chitosan-based hydrogels and investigation of their targeted oral delivery performance for vitamin B12. Int J Biol Macromol 2025:144478. [PMID: 40412699 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2025.144478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2025] [Revised: 05/16/2025] [Accepted: 05/19/2025] [Indexed: 05/27/2025]
Abstract
A novel pH-responsive hydrogel based on oxidized chitosan (ONC), ethylenediamine-modified gelatin (Am-Gel), and oxidized sodium alginate (OSA) was developed and comprehensively characterized for oral vitamin B12 (VB12) delivery. The hydrogel exhibited tunable porosity and water content, with the A5 formulation showing the highest values. Swelling behavior was strongly pH-dependent, with maximum swelling observed at pH 6.8-7.4. The hydrogel displayed selective antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus (inhibition zone: 9.5 ± 0.55 mm), rapid self-healing within 30 s, and strong antioxidant capacity (DPPH scavenging >60 %). Enzymatic degradation studies revealed over 70 % degradation within 10 h in trypsin-lysozyme solutions. In vitro release assays demonstrated significant pH-sensitive behavior: cumulative VB12 release was below 70 % in simulated gastric fluid (SGF) but approached 100 % in intestinal (SIF) and colonic fluids (SCF). Release kinetics followed the Peppas-Sahlin model, dominated by Fickian diffusion and modulated by crosslinking density and swelling properties. These findings highlight the hydrogel's potential as a promising platform for intelligent oral drug delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujing Zhong
- College of Material Science and Engineering, Huaqiao University, Engineering Research Center of Environment-Friendly Functional Materials, Ministry of Education, Xiamen 361021, China
| | - Ying Yu
- College of Material Science and Engineering, Huaqiao University, Engineering Research Center of Environment-Friendly Functional Materials, Ministry of Education, Xiamen 361021, China
| | - Yonggang Peng
- College of Material Science and Engineering, Huaqiao University, Engineering Research Center of Environment-Friendly Functional Materials, Ministry of Education, Xiamen 361021, China
| | - Zhongwen Su
- College of Material Science and Engineering, Huaqiao University, Engineering Research Center of Environment-Friendly Functional Materials, Ministry of Education, Xiamen 361021, China
| | - Yangfan Mao
- The Instrumental Analysis Center, Huaqiao University, Xiamen 361021, China
| | - Yikai Chen
- Center for Precision Medicine, School of Medicine and School of Biomedical Sciences, Huaqiao University, Xiamen 361021, China
| | - Lin Wang
- College of Chemistry and Environment, Ankang University, the Youth Innovation Team of Shaanxi Universities of Development and Utilization of Qinba Chinese Medicine, Shaanxi, Ankang 725000, China.
| | - Meihua Xin
- College of Material Science and Engineering, Huaqiao University, Engineering Research Center of Environment-Friendly Functional Materials, Ministry of Education, Xiamen 361021, China.
| | - Mingchun Li
- College of Material Science and Engineering, Huaqiao University, Engineering Research Center of Environment-Friendly Functional Materials, Ministry of Education, Xiamen 361021, China.
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2
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Lin B, Liu Y, Chen Q, Li M, Xu L, Chen Q, Tan Y, Liu Z. DNA Nanostructures-Based In Situ Cancer Vaccines: Mechanisms and Applications. SMALL METHODS 2025; 9:e2401501. [PMID: 39840607 DOI: 10.1002/smtd.202401501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2024] [Revised: 11/29/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2025]
Abstract
Current tumor vaccines suffer from inadequate immune responsive due to the insufficient release of tumor antigens, low tumor infiltration, and immunosuppressive microenvironment. DNA nanostructures with their ability to precisely engineer, controlled release, biocompatibility, and the capability to augment the immunogenicity of tumor microenvironment, have gained significant attention for their potential to revolutionize vaccine designing. This review summarizes various applications of DNA nanostructures in the construction of in situ cancer vaccines, which can generate tumor-associated antigens directly from damaged tumors for cancer immune-stimulation. The mechanisms and components of cancer vaccines are listed, the specific strategies for constructing in situ vaccines using DNA nanostructures are explored and their underlying mechanisms of action are elucidated. The immunogenic cell death (ICD) induced by chemotherapeutic agents, photothermal therapy (PTT), photodynamic therapy (PDT), and radiation therapy (RT) and the related cancer vaccines building strategies are systematically summarized. The applications of different DNA nanostructures in various cancer immunotherapy are elaborated, which exerts precise, long-lasting, and robust immune responses. The current challenges and future prospectives are proposed. This review provides a holistic understanding of the evolving role of DNA nanostructures for in situ vaccine development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bingyu Lin
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410083, P. R. China
| | - Yanfei Liu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410083, P. R. China
| | - Qiwen Chen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410083, P. R. China
| | - Mingfeng Li
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410013, P. R. China
| | - Lishang Xu
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410013, P. R. China
| | - Qianqian Chen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410083, P. R. China
| | - Yifu Tan
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410013, P. R. China
| | - Zhenbao Liu
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410013, P. R. China
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Wu X, Hu Y, Sheng S, Yang H, Li Z, Han Q, Zhang Q, Su J. DNA-based hydrogels for bone regeneration: A promising tool for bone organoids. Mater Today Bio 2025; 31:101502. [PMID: 39911372 PMCID: PMC11795821 DOI: 10.1016/j.mtbio.2025.101502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2024] [Revised: 01/14/2025] [Accepted: 01/18/2025] [Indexed: 02/07/2025] Open
Abstract
DNA-based hydrogels stand out for bone regeneration due to their exceptional biocompatibility and programmability. These hydrogels facilitate the formation of spatial bone structures through bulk hydrogel fabricating, microsphere formatting, and 3D printing. Furthermore, the bone microenvironment can be finely tuned by leveraging the degradation products, nanostructure, targeting, and delivery capabilities inherent to DNA-based materials. In this review, we underscore the advantages of DNA-based hydrogels, detailing their composition, gelation techniques, and structure optimization. We then delineate three critical elements in the promotion of bone regeneration using DNA-based hydrogels: (i) osteogenesis driven by phosphate ions, plasmids, and oligodeoxynucleotides (ODNs) that enhance mineralization and promote gene and protein expression; (ii) vascularization facilitated by tetrahedral DNA nanostructures (TDNs) and aptamers, which boosts gene expression and targeted release; (iii) immunomodulation achieved through loaded factors, TDNs, and bound ions that stimulate macrophage polarization and exhibit antibacterial properties. With these advantages and properties, these DNA-based hydrogels can be used to construct bone organoids, providing an innovative tool for disease modeling and therapeutic applications in bone tissue engineering. Finally, we discuss the current challenges and future prospects, emphasizing the potential impacts and applications in regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Wu
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, China
- Organoid Research Center, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, China
- National Center for Translational Medicine (Shanghai) SHU Branch, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, China
- School of Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, China
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, China
| | - Yan Hu
- Department of Orthopedics, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Shihao Sheng
- Department of Orthopedics, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Huijian Yang
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, China
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Shanghai Zhongye Hospital, Shanghai, 201941, China
| | - Zuhao Li
- Department of Orthopedics, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Qinglin Han
- Department of Orthopedics, The Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, China
| | - Qin Zhang
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, China
- Organoid Research Center, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, China
- National Center for Translational Medicine (Shanghai) SHU Branch, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, China
- Sanming Institute of Translational Medicine, Sanming, 365004, China
| | - Jiacan Su
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, China
- Organoid Research Center, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, China
- National Center for Translational Medicine (Shanghai) SHU Branch, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, China
- Department of Orthopedics, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200092, China
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Yin M, Hu X, Chen Y, Liang H, Shen Y, Guo W. Oligoadenine Strand Functionalized Polyacrylamide Hydrogel Film Exhibiting pH-Triggered High-Degree Inverse Shape Deformations. Chembiochem 2025; 26:e202400816. [PMID: 39714364 DOI: 10.1002/cbic.202400816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2024] [Revised: 12/18/2024] [Accepted: 12/18/2024] [Indexed: 12/24/2024]
Abstract
Smart shape-memory DNA hydrogels, which can respond to various types of external stimuli and undergo macroscopic shape deformations, have shown great potential in various applications. By constructing free-standing films, the deformation and response properties of these hydrogels can be further enhanced, and visualized deformation can be achieved. However, DNA hydrogels that can exhibit rapid and high-degree shape deformations, such as the inverse shape deformations, are still lacking. Herein, free-standing oligoadenine strand-functionalized polyacrylamide hydrogel films were developed that can exhibit reversible and high degree of inverse shape deformation upon cyclic pH changes. The oligoadenine strands exhibit a pH-stimulated reversible conformational transition between a flexible single-stranded state and parallel duplex A-motif structures, resulting in their role change in the film from negatively charged side chains to "head-to-head" crosslinking structures, driving a high degree of inverse shape deformation with a relative bending angle change of 223.7 % of the film, which is more than 5 times that of a film driven by pH-responsive i-motif structures, facilitating the development of bilayer hydrogel film actuators with potential in flexible sensors and robots.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengyuan Yin
- Research Center for Analytical Sciences, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Biosensing and Molecular Recognition, College of Chemistry, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, P. R. China
| | - Xiaohong Hu
- Research Center for Analytical Sciences, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Biosensing and Molecular Recognition, College of Chemistry, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, P. R. China
| | - Yu Chen
- Research Center for Analytical Sciences, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Biosensing and Molecular Recognition, College of Chemistry, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, P. R. China
| | - Hanxue Liang
- Research Center for Analytical Sciences, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Biosensing and Molecular Recognition, College of Chemistry, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, P. R. China
| | - Yuxin Shen
- Research Center for Analytical Sciences, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Biosensing and Molecular Recognition, College of Chemistry, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, P. R. China
| | - Weiwei Guo
- Research Center for Analytical Sciences, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Biosensing and Molecular Recognition, College of Chemistry, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, P. R. China
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5
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Song M, Zhang J, Shen K, Hu Y, Shen W, Tang S, Lee HK. Application of smart-responsive hydrogels in nucleic acid and nucleic acid-based target sensing: A review. Biosens Bioelectron 2025; 267:116803. [PMID: 39316868 DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2024.116803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2024] [Revised: 08/24/2024] [Accepted: 09/18/2024] [Indexed: 09/26/2024]
Abstract
In recent years, nucleic acid-related sensing and detection have become essential in clinical diagnostics, treatment and genotyping, especially in connection with the Human Genome Project and the COVID-19 pandemic. Many traditional nucleic acid-related sensing strategies have been employed in analytical chemistry, including fluorescence, colorimetric and chemiluminescence methods. However, their key limitation is the lack of understanding of the interaction during analysis, particularly at the 3D matrix level close to biological tissue. To address this issue, smart-responsive hydrogels are increasingly used in biosensing due to their hydrophilic and biocompatible properties. By combining smart-responsive hydrogels with traditional nucleic acid-related sensing, biological microenvironments can be mimicked, and targets can be easily accessed and diffused, making them ideal for nucleic acid sensing. This review focuses on utilizing smart-responsive hydrogels for nucleic acid-related sensing and detection, including nucleic acid detection, other nucleic acid-based analyte detection and nucleic acid-related sensing platforms applying nucleic acid as sensing tools in hydrogels. Additionally, the analytical mechanisms of smart-responsive hydrogels with the combination of various detection platforms such as optical and electrochemical techniques are described. The limitations of using smart-responsive hydrogels in nucleic acid-related sensing and proposed possible solutions are also discussed. Lastly, the future challenge of smart-responsive hydrogels in nucleic acid-related sensing is explored. Smart-responsive hydrogels can be used as biomimetic materials to simulate the extracellular matrix, achieve biosensing, and exhibit great potential in nucleic acid-related sensing. They serve as a valuable complement to traditional detection and analytical methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meiqi Song
- School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang, 212003, Jiangsu Province, PR China
| | - Jinghui Zhang
- School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang, 212003, Jiangsu Province, PR China.
| | - Ke Shen
- School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang, 212003, Jiangsu Province, PR China
| | - Yaxue Hu
- School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang, 212003, Jiangsu Province, PR China
| | - Wei Shen
- School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang, 212003, Jiangsu Province, PR China
| | - Sheng Tang
- School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang, 212003, Jiangsu Province, PR China.
| | - Hian Kee Lee
- School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang, 212003, Jiangsu Province, PR China; Department of Chemistry, National University of Singapore, 3 Science Drive 3, Singapore, 117543, Singapore.
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6
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Liu Z, Wu J, Luo Z, Hou Y, Xuan L, Xiao C, Chang J, Zhang D, Zheng G, Guo J, Tang G, Yu X. 3D Biofabrication of Microporous Hydrogels for Tissue Engineering. Adv Healthc Mater 2025; 14:e2403583. [PMID: 39641221 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202403583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2024] [Revised: 11/17/2024] [Indexed: 12/07/2024]
Abstract
Microporous hydrogels have been utilized in an unprecedented manner in the last few decades, combining materials science, biology, and medicine. Their microporous structure makes them suitable for wide applications, especially as cell carriers in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. Microporous hydrogel scaffolds provide spatial and platform support for cell growth and proliferation, which can promote cell growth, migration, and differentiation, influencing tissue repair and regeneration. This review gives an overview of recent developments in the fabrication techniques and applications of microporous hydrogels. The fabrication of microporous hydrogels can be classified into two distinct categories: fabrication of non-injectable microporous hydrogels including freeze-drying microporous method, two-phase sacrificial strategy, 3D biofabrication technology, etc., and fabrication of injectable microporous hydrogels mainly including microgel assembly. Then, the biomedical applications of microporous hydrogels in cell carriers for tissue engineering, including but not limited to bone regeneration, nerve regeneration, vascular regeneration, and muscle regeneration are emphasized. Additionally, the ongoing and foreseeable applications and current limitations of microporous hydrogels in biomedical engineering are illustrated. Through stimulating innovative ideas, the present review paves new avenues for expanding the application of microporous hydrogels in tissue engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziyang Liu
- Guangzhou Municipal and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Target & Clinical Pharmacology, the NMPA and State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and the Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 511436, P. R. China
| | - Jialin Wu
- Guangzhou Municipal and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Target & Clinical Pharmacology, the NMPA and State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and the Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 511436, P. R. China
| | - Zeyu Luo
- Department of Orthopedics, West China Hospital/West China School of Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, P. R. China
| | - Yingying Hou
- Guangzhou Municipal and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Target & Clinical Pharmacology, the NMPA and State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and the Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 511436, P. R. China
| | - Leyan Xuan
- Guangzhou Municipal and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Target & Clinical Pharmacology, the NMPA and State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and the Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 511436, P. R. China
| | - Changyi Xiao
- Guangzhou Municipal and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Target & Clinical Pharmacology, the NMPA and State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and the Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 511436, P. R. China
| | - Jishuo Chang
- Guangzhou Municipal and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Target & Clinical Pharmacology, the NMPA and State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and the Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 511436, P. R. China
| | - Dongyang Zhang
- Guangzhou Municipal and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Target & Clinical Pharmacology, the NMPA and State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and the Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 511436, P. R. China
| | - Guodong Zheng
- Guangzhou Municipal and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Target & Clinical Pharmacology, the NMPA and State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and the Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 511436, P. R. China
| | - Jie Guo
- Division of Engineering in Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
| | - Guosheng Tang
- Guangzhou Municipal and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Target & Clinical Pharmacology, the NMPA and State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and the Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 511436, P. R. China
| | - Xiyong Yu
- Guangzhou Municipal and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Target & Clinical Pharmacology, the NMPA and State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and the Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 511436, P. R. China
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Hu Y, Willner I. Oligo-Adenine Derived Secondary Nucleic Acid Frameworks: From Structural Characteristics to Applications. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2024; 63:e202412106. [PMID: 39183707 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202412106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2024] [Revised: 08/19/2024] [Accepted: 08/20/2024] [Indexed: 08/27/2024]
Abstract
Oligo-adenine (polyA) is primarily known for its critical role in mRNA stability, translational status, and gene regulation. Beyond its biological functions, extensive research has unveiled the diverse applications of polyA. In response to environmental stimuli, single polyA strands undergo distinctive structural transitions into diverse secondary configurations, which are reversible upon the introduction of appropriate counter-triggers. In this review, we systematically summarize recent advances of noncanonical structures derived from polyA, including A-motif duplex, A-cyanuric acid triplex, A-coralyne-A duplex, and T ⋅ A-T triplex. The structural characteristics and mechanisms underlying these conformations under specific external stimuli are addressed, followed by examples of their applications in stimuli-responsive DNA hydrogels, supramolecular fibre assembly, molecular electronics and switches, biosensing and bioengineering, payloads encapsulation and release, and others. A detailed comparison of these polyA-derived noncanonical structures is provided, highlighting their distinctive features. Furthermore, by integrating their stimuli-responsiveness and conformational characteristics, advanced material development, such as pH-cascaded DNA hydrogels and supramolecular fibres exhibiting dynamic structural transitions adapting environmental cues, are introduced. An outlook for future developments is also discussed. These polyA derived, stimuli-responsive, noncanonical structures enrich the arsenal of DNA "toolbox", offering dynamic DNA frameworks for diverse future applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuwei Hu
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (IMRE), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 2 Fusionopolis Way, Innovis #08-03, 138634, Singapore, Republic of Singapore
| | - Itamar Willner
- Institute of Chemistry, The Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, 91904, Jerusalem, Israel
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Sun M, Song R, Fang Y, Xu J, Yang Z, Zhang H. DNA-Based Complexes and Composites: A Review of Fabrication Methods, Properties, and Applications. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2024; 16:51899-51915. [PMID: 39314016 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.4c13357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/25/2024]
Abstract
Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), a macromolecule that stores genetic information in organisms, has recently been gradually developed into a building block for new materials due to its stable chemical structure and excellent biocompatibility. The efficient preparation and functional integration of various molecular complexes and composite materials based on nucleic acid skeletons have been successfully achieved. These versatile materials possess excellent physical and chemical properties inherent to certain inorganic or organic molecules but are endowed with specific physiological functions by nucleic acids, demonstrating unique advantages and potential applications in materials science, nanotechnology, and biomedical engineering in recent years. However, issues such as the production cost, biological stability, and potential immunogenicity of DNA have presented some unprecedented challenges to the application of these materials in the field. This review summarizes the cutting-edge manufacturing techniques and unique properties of DNA-based complexes and composites and discusses the trends, challenges, and opportunities for the future development of nucleic acid-based materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengqiu Sun
- School of Physical Sciences, Great Bay University, Dongguan 523000, China
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Rui Song
- School of Physical Sciences, Great Bay University, Dongguan 523000, China
- Research & Development Institute of Northwestern Polytechnical University in Shenzhen, Shenzhen 518063, China
| | - Yangwu Fang
- School of Physical Sciences, Great Bay University, Dongguan 523000, China
| | - Jiuzhou Xu
- School of Life Sciences, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Zhaoqi Yang
- School of Life Sciences and Health Engineering, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Hao Zhang
- School of Physical Sciences, Great Bay University, Dongguan 523000, China
- Research & Development Institute of Northwestern Polytechnical University in Shenzhen, Shenzhen 518063, China
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9
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Wu R, Li W, Yang P, Shen N, Yang A, Liu X, Ju Y, Lei L, Fang B. DNA hydrogels and their derivatives in biomedical engineering applications. J Nanobiotechnology 2024; 22:518. [PMID: 39210464 PMCID: PMC11360341 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-024-02791-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2024] [Accepted: 08/20/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Deoxyribonucleotide (DNA) is uniquely programmable and biocompatible, and exhibits unique appeal as a biomaterial as it can be precisely designed and programmed to construct arbitrary shapes. DNA hydrogels are polymer networks comprising cross-linked DNA strands. As DNA hydrogels present programmability, biocompatibility, and stimulus responsiveness, they are extensively explored in the field of biomedicine. In this study, we provide an overview of recent advancements in DNA hydrogel technology. We outline the different design philosophies and methods of DNA hydrogel preparation, discuss its special physicochemical characteristics, and highlight the various uses of DNA hydrogels in biomedical domains, such as drug delivery, biosensing, tissue engineering, and cell culture. Finally, we discuss the current difficulties facing DNA hydrogels and their potential future development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Wu
- Department of Plastic and Aesthetic (Burn) Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China
| | - Wenting Li
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100000, China
| | - Pu Yang
- Department of Plastic and Aesthetic (Burn) Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China
| | - Naisi Shen
- Department of Plastic and Aesthetic (Burn) Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China
| | - Anqi Yang
- Department of Plastic and Aesthetic (Burn) Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China
| | - Xiangjun Liu
- Department of Plastic and Aesthetic (Burn) Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China
| | - Yikun Ju
- Department of Plastic and Aesthetic (Burn) Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China
| | - Lanjie Lei
- Key Laboratory of Artificial Organs and Computational Medicine in Zhejiang Province, Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang Shuren University, Hangzhou, 310015, China.
| | - Bairong Fang
- Department of Plastic and Aesthetic (Burn) Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China.
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Hu Y, Liu J, Ke Y, Wang B, Lim JYC, Dong Z, Long Y, Willner I. Oligo-Adenine and Cyanuric Acid Supramolecular DNA-Based Hydrogels Exhibiting Acid-Resistance and Physiological pH-Responsiveness. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2024; 16:29235-29247. [PMID: 38769743 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.4c03834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
Expanding the functions and applications of DNA by integrating noncanonical bases and structures into biopolymers is a continuous scientific effort. An adenine-rich strand (A-strand) is introduced as functional scaffold revealing, in the presence of the low-molecular-weight cofactor cyanuric acid (CA, pKa 6.9), supramolecular hydrogel-forming efficacies demonstrating multiple pH-responsiveness. At pH 1.2, the A-strand transforms into a parallel A-motif duplex hydrogel cross-linked by AH+-H+A units due to the protonation of adenine (pKa 3.5). At pH 5.2, and in the presence of coadded CA, a helicene-like configuration is formed between adenine and protonated CA, generating a parallel A-CA triplex cross-linked hydrogel. At pH 8.0, the hydrogel undergoes transition into a liquid state by deprotonation of CA cofactor units and disassembly of A-CA triplex into its constituent components. Density functional theory calculations and molecular dynamics simulations, supporting the structural reconfigurations of A-strand in the presence of CA, are performed. The sequential pH-stimulated hydrogel states are rheometrically characterized. The hydrogel framework is loaded with fluorescein-labeled insulin, and the pH-stimulated release of insulin from the hydrogel across the pH barriers present in the gastrointestinal tract is demonstrated. The results provide principles for future application of the hydrogel for oral insulin administration for diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuwei Hu
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (IMRE), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 2 Fusionopolis Way, Innovis #08-03, Singapore 138634, Republic of Singapore
| | - Jia Liu
- State Key Laboratory Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces and Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Theoretical and Computational Chemistry, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, P. R. China
| | - Yujie Ke
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (IMRE), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 2 Fusionopolis Way, Innovis #08-03, Singapore 138634, Republic of Singapore
| | - Binju Wang
- State Key Laboratory Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces and Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Theoretical and Computational Chemistry, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, P. R. China
| | - Jason Y C Lim
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (IMRE), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 2 Fusionopolis Way, Innovis #08-03, Singapore 138634, Republic of Singapore
| | - Zhaogang Dong
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (IMRE), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 2 Fusionopolis Way, Innovis #08-03, Singapore 138634, Republic of Singapore
| | - Yi Long
- Electronic Engineering Department, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, P. R. China
| | - Itamar Willner
- Institute of Chemistry, The Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91904, Israel
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11
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Lee SR, Ong CYJ, Wong JY, Ke Y, Lim JYC, Dong Z, Long Y, Hu Y. Programming the Assembly of Oligo-Adenine with Coralyne into a pH-Responsive DNA Hydrogel. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2024. [PMID: 38489480 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.4c01678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/17/2024]
Abstract
External stimuli-responsive DNA hydrogels present interesting platforms for drug loading and triggered release. Typically, drug molecules are encapsulated within three-dimensionally hybridized DNA networks. However, the utilization of drug molecules as cofactors to facilitate the directed assembly of DNA strands into hydrogel frameworks and their subsequent controlled release remains to be explored. Herein, we introduce the guided assembly of oligo-adenine (A-strand) into an acidic pH-responsive DNA hydrogel using an anticancer drug, coralyne (COR), as a low-molecular-weight cofactor. At pH 7, COR orchestrates the assembly of A-strand into an antiparallel duplex configuration cross-linked by A-COR-A units at a stoichiometric ratio of one COR cofactor per four adenine bases, resulting in a DNA hydrogel characterized by A-COR-A duplex bridges. At pH 4-5, the instability of A-COR-A units results in the disintegration of the duplex into its constituent components, leading to the release of COR and simultaneous dissociation of the DNA hydrogel matrix. This study introduces a method by which drug molecules, exemplified here by COR, facilitate the direct formation of a supramolecular cofactor-DNA complex, subsequently leading to the creation of a stimuli-responsive DNA hydrogel. This approach may inspire future investigations into DNA hydrogels tailored for controlled drug encapsulation and release applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shu Rui Lee
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (IMRE), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 2 Fusionopolis Way, Innovis #08-03, Singapore 138634, Republic of Singapore
- Division of Chemistry and Biological Chemistry, School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 637371, Republic of Singapore
| | - Clemen Yu Jie Ong
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (IMRE), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 2 Fusionopolis Way, Innovis #08-03, Singapore 138634, Republic of Singapore
- Department of Chemistry, National University of Singapore, 3 Science Drive 3, Singapore 117543, Republic of Singapore
| | - Jing Yi Wong
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (IMRE), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 2 Fusionopolis Way, Innovis #08-03, Singapore 138634, Republic of Singapore
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National University of Singapore, 4 Engineering Drive 3, Singapore 117543, Republic of Singapore
| | - Yujie Ke
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (IMRE), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 2 Fusionopolis Way, Innovis #08-03, Singapore 138634, Republic of Singapore
| | - Jason Y C Lim
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (IMRE), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 2 Fusionopolis Way, Innovis #08-03, Singapore 138634, Republic of Singapore
| | - Zhaogang Dong
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (IMRE), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 2 Fusionopolis Way, Innovis #08-03, Singapore 138634, Republic of Singapore
| | - Yi Long
- Electronic Engineering Department, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, P. R. China
| | - Yuwei Hu
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (IMRE), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 2 Fusionopolis Way, Innovis #08-03, Singapore 138634, Republic of Singapore
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12
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Mao X, Ding X, Wang Q, Sun X, Qin L, Huang F, Wen L, Xiang X. Oriented Self-assembly of Flexible MOFs Nanocrystals into Anisotropic Superstructures with Homogeneous Hydrogels Behaviors. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2023:e2308739. [PMID: 38054629 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202308739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023]
Abstract
Building of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) homogeneous hydrogels made by spontaneous crystallization remains a significant challenge. Inspired by anisotropically structured materials in nature, an oriented super-assembly strategy to construct micro-scale MOFs superstructure is reported, in which the strong intermolecular interactions between zirconium-oxygen (Zr─O) cluster and glutamic acid are utilized to drive the self-assembly of flexible nanoribbons into pumpkin-like microspheres. The confined effect between water-flexible building blocks and crosslinked hydrogen networks of superstructures achieved a mismatch transformation of MOFs powders into homogeneous hydrogels. Importantly, the elastic and rigid properties of hydrogels can be simply controlled by precise modulation of coordination and self-assembly for anisotropic superstructure. Experimental results and theoretical calculations demonstrates that MOFs anisotropic superstructure exhibits dynamic double networks with a superior water harvesting capacity (119.73 g g-1 ) accompanied with heavy metal removal (1331.67 mg g-1 ) and strong mechanical strength (Young's modulus of 0.3 GPa). The study highlights the unique possibility of tailoring MOFs superstructure with homogeneous hydrogel behavior for application in diverse fields.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyan Mao
- Center for Membrane Separation and Water Science & Technology, State Key Lab Base of Green Chemical Synthesis Technology, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, China
| | - Xinqi Ding
- College of Food Science and Technology, Key Laboratory of Marine Fishery Resources Exploitment & Utilization, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, China
| | - Qi Wang
- Marine Academy of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310014, China
| | - Xiping Sun
- Center for Membrane Separation and Water Science & Technology, State Key Lab Base of Green Chemical Synthesis Technology, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, China
| | - Lei Qin
- Center for Membrane Separation and Water Science & Technology, State Key Lab Base of Green Chemical Synthesis Technology, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, China
| | - Fei Huang
- Center for Membrane Separation and Water Science & Technology, State Key Lab Base of Green Chemical Synthesis Technology, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, China
| | - Luhong Wen
- Research Institute of Advanced Technologies, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315211, China
| | - Xingwei Xiang
- College of Food Science and Technology, Key Laboratory of Marine Fishery Resources Exploitment & Utilization, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, China
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