1
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Jones C, Kershaw Cook LJ, Slater AG, Yufit DS, Steed JW. Scrolling in Supramolecular Gels: A Designer's Guide. CHEMISTRY OF MATERIALS : A PUBLICATION OF THE AMERICAN CHEMICAL SOCIETY 2024; 36:2799-2809. [PMID: 38558920 PMCID: PMC10976645 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemmater.3c03013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2023] [Revised: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Gelation by small molecules is a topic of enormous importance in catalysis, nanomaterials, drug delivery, and pharmaceutical crystallization. The mechanism by which gelators self-organize into a fibrous gel network is poorly understood. Herein, we describe the crystal structures and gelation properties of a library of bis(urea) compounds and show, via molecular dynamics simulations, how gelator aggregation progresses from a continuous pattern of supramolecular motifs to a homogeneous fiber network. Our model suggests that lamellae with asymmetric surfaces scroll into uniform unbranched fibrils, while sheets with symmetric surfaces undergo stacking to form crystals. The self-assembly of asymmetric lamellae is associated with specific molecular features, such as the presence of narrow and flexible end groups with high packing densities, and likely represents a general mechanism for the formation of small-molecule gels.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Laurence J. Kershaw Cook
- Department
of Chemistry and Materials Innovation Factory, University of Liverpool, Crown Street, Liverpool L69 7ZD, U.K.
| | - Anna G. Slater
- Department
of Chemistry and Materials Innovation Factory, University of Liverpool, Crown Street, Liverpool L69 7ZD, U.K.
| | - Dmitry S. Yufit
- Department
of Chemistry, Durham University, Durham DH1 3LE, U.K.
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2
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Sonani RR, Bianco S, Dietrich B, Doutch J, Draper ER, Adams DJ, Egelman EH. Atomic structures of naphthalene dipeptide micelles unravel mechanisms of assembly and gelation. CELL REPORTS. PHYSICAL SCIENCE 2024; 5:101812. [PMID: 38464674 PMCID: PMC10922087 DOI: 10.1016/j.xcrp.2024.101812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
Peptide-based biopolymers have gained increasing attention due to their versatile applications. A naphthalene dipeptide (2NapFF) can form chirality-dependent tubular micelles, leading to supramolecular gels. The precise molecular arrangement within these micelles and the mechanism governing gelation have remained enigmatic. We determined, at near-atomic resolution, cryoelectron microscopy structures of the 2NapFF micelles LL-tube and LD-tube, generated by the stereoisomers (l,l)-2NapFF and (l,d)-2NapFF, respectively. The structures reveal that the fundamental packing of dipeptides is driven by the systematic π-π stacking of aromatic rings and that same-charge repulsion between the carbonyl groups is responsible for the stiffness of both tubes. The structural analysis elucidates how a single residue's altered chirality gives rise to markedly distinct tubular structures and sheds light on the mechanisms underlying the pH-dependent gelation of LL- and LD-tubes. The understanding of dipeptide packing and gelation mechanisms provides insights for the rational design of 2NapFF derivatives, enabling the modulation of micellar dimensions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ravi R. Sonani
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22903, USA
| | - Simona Bianco
- School of Chemistry, University of Glasgow, G12 8QQ Glasgow, UK
| | - Bart Dietrich
- School of Chemistry, University of Glasgow, G12 8QQ Glasgow, UK
| | - James Doutch
- ISIS Pulsed Neutron and Muon Source, Harwell Science and Innovation Campus, OX11 0QX Didcot, UK
| | - Emily R. Draper
- School of Chemistry, University of Glasgow, G12 8QQ Glasgow, UK
| | - Dave J. Adams
- School of Chemistry, University of Glasgow, G12 8QQ Glasgow, UK
| | - Edward H. Egelman
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22903, USA
- Lead contact
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3
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Smith DK. Supramolecular gels - a panorama of low-molecular-weight gelators from ancient origins to next-generation technologies. SOFT MATTER 2023; 20:10-70. [PMID: 38073497 DOI: 10.1039/d3sm01301d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
Supramolecular gels, self-assembled from low-molecular-weight gelators (LMWGs), have a long history and a bright future. This review provides an overview of these materials, from their use in lubrication and personal care in the ancient world, through to next-generation technologies. In academic terms, colloid scientists in the 19th and early 20th centuries first understood such gels as being physically assembled as a result of weak interactions, combining a solid-like network having a degree of crystalline order with a highly mobile liquid-like phase. During the 20th century, industrial scientists began using these materials in new applications in the polymer, oil and food industries. The advent of supramolecular chemistry in the late 20th century, with its focus on non-covalent interactions and controlled self-assembly, saw the horizons for these materials shifted significantly beyond their historic rheological applications, expanding their potential. The ability to tune the LMWG chemical structure, manipulate hierarchical assembly, develop multi-component systems, and introduce new types of responsive and interactive behaviour, has been transformative. Furthermore, the dynamics of these materials are increasingly understood, creating metastable gels and transiently-fueled systems. New approaches to shaping and patterning gels are providing a unique opportunity for more sophisticated uses. These supramolecular advances are increasingly underpinning and informing next-generation applications - from drug delivery and regenerative medicine to environmental remediation and sustainable energy. In summary, this article presents a panorama over the field of supramolecular gels, emphasising how both academic and industrial scientists are building on the past, and engaging new fundamental insights and innovative concepts to open up exciting horizons for their future use.
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Affiliation(s)
- David K Smith
- Department of Chemistry, University of York, Heslington, York, YO10 5DD, UK.
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4
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McGarry LF, El-Zubir O, Waddell PG, Cucinotta F, Houlton A, Horrocks BR. Vesicles, fibres, films and crystals: A low-molecular-weight-gelator [Au(6-thioguanosine) 2]Cl which exhibits a co-operative anion-induced transition from vesicles to a fibrous metallo-hydrogel. SOFT MATTER 2023; 19:8386-8402. [PMID: 37873806 PMCID: PMC10630954 DOI: 10.1039/d3sm01006f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023]
Abstract
We describe a simple coordination compound of Au(I) and 6-thioguanosine, [Au(6-tGH)2]Cl, that has a rich self-assembly chemistry. In aqueous solution, the discrete complex assembles into a supramolecular fibre and forms a luminescent hydrogel at concentrations above about 1 mM. Below this concentration, the macromolecular structure is a vesicle. Through appropriate control of the solvent polarity, the gel can be turned into a lamellar film or crystallised. The molecular structure of [Au(6-tGH)2]Cl was determined using single crystal X-ray diffraction, which showed bis-6-thioguanosine linearly coordinated through the thione moiety to a central Au(I) ion. In the vesicles, the photoluminescence spectrum shows a broad, weak band at 550 nm owing to aurophilic interactions. Co-operative self-assembly from vesicle to fibre is made possible through halogen hydrogen bonding interactions and the aurophilic interactions are lost, resulting in a strong photoluminescence band at 490 nm with vibronic structure typical of an intraligand transition. The vesicle-fibre transition is also revealed by a large increase of ellipticity in the circular dichroism spectrum with a prominent peak near 390 nm owing to the helical structure of the fibres. Atomic force microscopy shows that at the same time as fibres form, the sample gels. Imaging near the vesicle-fibre transition shows that the fibres form between vesicles and a mechanism for the transition based on vesicle collisions is proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liam F McGarry
- Chemistry, School of Natural Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 7RU, UK.
| | - Osama El-Zubir
- Chemistry, School of Natural Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 7RU, UK.
| | - Paul G Waddell
- Chemistry, School of Natural Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 7RU, UK.
| | - Fabio Cucinotta
- Chemistry, School of Natural Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 7RU, UK.
| | - Andrew Houlton
- Chemistry, School of Natural Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 7RU, UK.
| | - Benjamin R Horrocks
- Chemistry, School of Natural Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 7RU, UK.
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5
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Wu Y, Wang Y, Guan X, Zhang H, Guo R, Cui C, Wu D, Cheng Y, Ge Z, Zheng Y, Zhang Y. Molecular Clogging Organogels with Excellent Solvent Maintenance, Adjustable Modulus, and Advanced Mechanics for Impact Protection. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2023; 35:e2306882. [PMID: 37639726 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202306882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Revised: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
Inspired by mechanically interlocking supramolecular materials, exploiting the size difference between the bulky solvent and the cross-linked network mesh, a molecular clogging (MC) effect is developed to effectively inhibit solvent migration in organogels. A bulky solvent (branched citrate ester, BCE) with a molecular size above 1.4 nm is designed and synthesized. Series of MC-Gels are prepared by in situ polymerization of crosslinked polyurea with BCE as the gel solvent. The MC-Gels are colorless, transparent, and highly homogeneous, show significantly improved stability than gels prepared with small molecule solvents. As solvent migration is strongly inhibited by molecular clogging, the solvent content of the gels can be precisely controlled, resulting in a series of MC-Gels with continuously adjustable mechanics. In particular, the modulus of MC-Gel can be regulated from 1.3 GPa to 30 kPa, with a variation of 43 000 times. The molecular clogging effect also provides MC-Gels with unique high damping (maximum damping factor of 1.9), impact resistant mechanics (high impact toughness up to 40.68 MJ m-3 ). By applying shatter protection to items including eggs and ceramic armor plates, the potential of MC-Gels as high strength, high damping soft materials for a wide range of applications is well demonstrated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youshen Wu
- Engineering Research Center of Energy Storage Materials and Devices, Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710049, P. R. China
| | - Yilin Wang
- Engineering Research Center of Energy Storage Materials and Devices, Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710049, P. R. China
| | - Xin Guan
- Engineering Research Center of Energy Storage Materials and Devices, Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710049, P. R. China
| | - Hui Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of the Ministry of Education, School of Life Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710049, P. R. China
| | - Rui Guo
- Engineering Research Center of Energy Storage Materials and Devices, Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710049, P. R. China
| | - Chenhui Cui
- Engineering Research Center of Energy Storage Materials and Devices, Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710049, P. R. China
| | - Daocheng Wu
- Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of the Ministry of Education, School of Life Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710049, P. R. China
| | - Yilong Cheng
- Engineering Research Center of Energy Storage Materials and Devices, Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710049, P. R. China
| | - Zhishen Ge
- Engineering Research Center of Energy Storage Materials and Devices, Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710049, P. R. China
| | - Yuansuo Zheng
- Engineering Research Center of Energy Storage Materials and Devices, Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710049, P. R. China
| | - Yanfeng Zhang
- Engineering Research Center of Energy Storage Materials and Devices, Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710049, P. R. China
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6
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Woods JF, Gallego L, Maisch A, Renggli D, Cuocci C, Blacque O, Steinfeld G, Kaech A, Spingler B, Vargas Jentzsch A, Rickhaus M. Saddles as rotational locks within shape-assisted self-assembled nanosheets. Nat Commun 2023; 14:4725. [PMID: 37550281 PMCID: PMC10406840 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-40475-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Two-dimensional (2D) materials are a key target for many applications in the modern day. Self-assembly is one approach that can bring us closer to this goal, which usually relies upon strong, directional interactions instead of covalent bonds. Control over less directional forces is more challenging and usually does not result in as well-defined materials. Explicitly incorporating topography into the design as a guiding effect to enhance the interacting forces can help to form highly ordered structures. Herein, we show the process of shape-assisted self-assembly to be consistent across a range of derivatives that highlights the restriction of rotational motion and is verified using a diverse combination of solid state analyses. A molecular curvature governed angle distribution nurtures monomers into loose columns that then arrange to form 2D structures with long-range order observed in both crystalline and soft materials. These features strengthen the idea that shape becomes an important design principle leading towards precise molecular self-assembly and the inception of new materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph F Woods
- Department of Chemistry, University of Zurich, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Lucía Gallego
- Department of Chemistry, University of Zurich, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Amira Maisch
- Department of Chemistry, University of Zurich, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Dominik Renggli
- Department of Chemistry, University of Zurich, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Corrado Cuocci
- Institute of Crystallography, CNR, Via Amendola, 122/O, 70126, Bari, Italy
| | - Olivier Blacque
- Department of Chemistry, University of Zurich, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland
| | | | - Andres Kaech
- Center for Microscopy and Image Analysis, University of Zurich, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Bernhard Spingler
- Department of Chemistry, University of Zurich, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Andreas Vargas Jentzsch
- SAMS Research Group, University of Strasbourg, Institut Charles Sadron, CNRS, 67200, Strasbourg, France
| | - Michel Rickhaus
- Department of Chemistry, University of Zurich, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland.
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7
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Yilmazer S, Schwaller D, Mésini PJ. Beyond Sol-Gel: Molecular Gels with Different Transitions. Gels 2023; 9:gels9040273. [PMID: 37102885 PMCID: PMC10137434 DOI: 10.3390/gels9040273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Revised: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The existence of sol–gel transitions is one of the most manifest properties of molecular gels. These transitions reflect their nature since they correspond to the association or dissociation of low weight molecules through non-covalent interactions to form the network constitutive of the gel. Most described molecular gels undergo only one gel-to-sol transition upon heating, and the reverse sol-to-gel transition upon cooling. It has been long observed that different conditions of formation could lead to gels with different morphologies, and that gels can undergo a transition from gel to crystals. However, more recent publications report molecular gels which exhibit additional transitions, for instance gel-to-gel transitions. This review surveys the molecular gels for which, in addition to sol–gel transitions, transitions of different nature have been reported: gel-to-gel transitions, gel-to-crystal transition, liquid–liquid phase separations, eutectic transformations, and synereses.
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8
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Schirmer J, Chevigny R, Emelianov A, Hulkko E, Johansson A, Myllyperkiö P, Sitsanidis ED, Nissinen M, Pettersson M. Diversity at the nanoscale: laser-oxidation of single-layer graphene affects Fmoc-phenylalanine surface-mediated self-assembly. Phys Chem Chem Phys 2023; 25:8725-8733. [PMID: 36896827 DOI: 10.1039/d3cp00117b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/06/2023]
Abstract
We report the effects of a laser-oxidized single layer graphene (SLG) surface on the self-assembly of amphiphilic gelator N-fluorenylmethoxycarbonyl-L-phenylalanine (Fmoc-Phe) towards an gel-SLG interface. Laser oxidation modulates the levels of hydrophobicity/hydrophilicity on the SLG surface. Atomic force, scanning electron, helium ion and scattering scanning nearfield optical microscopies (AFM, SEM, HIM, s-SNOM) were employed to assess the effects of surface properties on the secondary and tertiary organization of the formed Fmoc-Phe fibres at the SLG-gel interface. S-SNOM shows sheet-like secondary structures on both hydrophobic/hydrophilic areas of SLG and helical or disordered structures mainly on the hydrophilic oxidized surface. The gel network heterogeneity on pristine graphene was observed at the scale of single fibres by s-SNOM, demonstrating its power as a unique tool to study supramolecular assemblies and interfaces at nanoscale. Our findings underline the sensitivity of assembled structures to surface properties, while our characterization approach is a step forward in assessing surface-gel interfaces for the development of bionic devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johanna Schirmer
- Department of Chemistry, Nanoscience Center, University of Jyväskylä, P. O. Box 35, FI-40014 JYU, Finland.
| | - Romain Chevigny
- Department of Chemistry, Nanoscience Center, University of Jyväskylä, P. O. Box 35, FI-40014 JYU, Finland.
| | - Aleksei Emelianov
- Department of Chemistry, Nanoscience Center, University of Jyväskylä, P. O. Box 35, FI-40014 JYU, Finland.
| | - Eero Hulkko
- Department of Chemistry, Nanoscience Center, University of Jyväskylä, P. O. Box 35, FI-40014 JYU, Finland.
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Nanoscience Center, University of Jyväskylä, P. O. Box 35, FI-40014 JYU, Finland
| | - Andreas Johansson
- Department of Chemistry, Nanoscience Center, University of Jyväskylä, P. O. Box 35, FI-40014 JYU, Finland.
- Department of Physics, Nanoscience Center, University of Jyväskylä, P. O. Box 35, FI-40014 JYU, Finland
| | - Pasi Myllyperkiö
- Department of Chemistry, Nanoscience Center, University of Jyväskylä, P. O. Box 35, FI-40014 JYU, Finland.
| | - Efstratios D Sitsanidis
- Department of Chemistry, Nanoscience Center, University of Jyväskylä, P. O. Box 35, FI-40014 JYU, Finland.
| | - Maija Nissinen
- Department of Chemistry, Nanoscience Center, University of Jyväskylä, P. O. Box 35, FI-40014 JYU, Finland.
| | - Mika Pettersson
- Department of Chemistry, Nanoscience Center, University of Jyväskylä, P. O. Box 35, FI-40014 JYU, Finland.
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9
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Hamley IW. Self-Assembly, Bioactivity, and Nanomaterials Applications of Peptide Conjugates with Bulky Aromatic Terminal Groups. ACS APPLIED BIO MATERIALS 2023; 6:384-409. [PMID: 36735801 PMCID: PMC9945136 DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.2c01041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
The self-assembly and structural and functional properties of peptide conjugates containing bulky terminal aromatic substituents are reviewed with a particular focus on bioactivity. Terminal moieties include Fmoc [fluorenylmethyloxycarbonyl], naphthalene, pyrene, naproxen, diimides of naphthalene or pyrene, and others. These provide a driving force for self-assembly due to π-stacking and hydrophobic interactions, in addition to the hydrogen bonding, electrostatic, and other forces between short peptides. The balance of these interactions leads to a propensity to self-assembly, even for conjugates to single amino acids. The hybrid molecules often form hydrogels built from a network of β-sheet fibrils. The properties of these as biomaterials to support cell culture, or in the development of molecules that can assemble in cells (in response to cellular enzymes, or otherwise) with a range of fascinating bioactivities such as anticancer or antimicrobial activity, are highlighted. In addition, applications of hydrogels as slow-release drug delivery systems and in catalysis and other applications are discussed. The aromatic nature of the substituents also provides a diversity of interesting optoelectronic properties that have been demonstrated in the literature, and an overview of this is also provided. Also discussed are coassembly and enzyme-instructed self-assembly which enable precise tuning and (stimulus-responsive) functionalization of peptide nanostructures.
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10
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Noteborn WM, Vittala SK, Torredemer MB, Maity C, Versluis F, Eelkema R, Kieltyka RE. Switching the Mode of Drug Release from a Reaction-Coupled Low-Molecular-Weight Gelator System by Altering Its Reaction Pathway. Biomacromolecules 2023; 24:377-386. [PMID: 36562759 PMCID: PMC9832487 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.2c01197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Low-molecular-weight hydrogels are attractive scaffolds for drug delivery applications because of their modular and facile preparation starting from inexpensive molecular components. The molecular design of the hydrogelator results in a commitment to a particular release strategy, where either noncovalent or covalent bonding of the drug molecule dictates its rate and mechanism. Herein, we demonstrate an alternative approach using a reaction-coupled gelator to tune drug release in a facile and user-defined manner by altering the reaction pathway of the low-molecular-weight gelator (LMWG) and drug components through an acylhydrazone-bond-forming reaction. We show that an off-the-shelf drug with a reactive handle, doxorubicin, can be covalently bound to the gelator through its ketone moiety when the addition of the aldehyde component is delayed from 0 to 24 h, or noncovalently bound with its addition at 0 h. We also examine the use of an l-histidine methyl ester catalyst to prepare the drug-loaded hydrogels under physiological conditions. Fitting of the drug release profiles with the Korsmeyer-Peppas model corroborates a switch in the mode of release consistent with the reaction pathway taken: increased covalent ligation drives a transition from a Fickian to a semi-Fickian mode in the second stage of release with a decreased rate. Sustained release of doxorubicin from the reaction-coupled hydrogel is further confirmed in an MTT toxicity assay with MCF-7 breast cancer cells. We demonstrate the modularity and ease of the reaction-coupled approach to prepare drug-loaded self-assembled hydrogels in situ with tunable mechanics and drug release profiles that may find eventual applications in macroscale drug delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Willem
E. M. Noteborn
- Supramolecular
and Biomaterials Chemistry, Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Leiden University, P.O. Box 9502, 2300 RALeiden, The Netherlands
| | - Sandeepa K. Vittala
- Supramolecular
and Biomaterials Chemistry, Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Leiden University, P.O. Box 9502, 2300 RALeiden, The Netherlands
| | - Maria Broto Torredemer
- Supramolecular
and Biomaterials Chemistry, Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Leiden University, P.O. Box 9502, 2300 RALeiden, The Netherlands
| | - Chandan Maity
- Department
of Chemical Engineering, Delft University
of Technology, Van der
Maasweg 9, 2629 HZDelft, The Netherlands
| | - Frank Versluis
- Department
of Chemical Engineering, Delft University
of Technology, Van der
Maasweg 9, 2629 HZDelft, The Netherlands
| | - Rienk Eelkema
- Department
of Chemical Engineering, Delft University
of Technology, Van der
Maasweg 9, 2629 HZDelft, The Netherlands
| | - Roxanne E. Kieltyka
- Supramolecular
and Biomaterials Chemistry, Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Leiden University, P.O. Box 9502, 2300 RALeiden, The Netherlands,
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11
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Abstract
![]()
Low molecular weight
gels are formed by the self-assembly of small
molecules into anisotropic structures that form a network capable
of immobilizing the solvent. Such gels are common, with a huge number
of different examples existing, and they have many applications. However,
there are still significant gaps in our understanding of these systems
and challenges that need to be addressed if we are to be able to fully
design such systems. Here, a number of these challenges are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dave J Adams
- School of Chemistry, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, United Kingdom
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12
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Bellotto O, Pierri G, Rozhin P, Polentarutti M, Kralj S, D'Andrea P, Tedesco C, Marchesan S. Dipeptide self-assembly into water-channels and gel biomaterial. Org Biomol Chem 2022; 20:6211-6218. [PMID: 35575102 DOI: 10.1039/d2ob00622g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Dipeptides are convenient building blocks for supramolecular gel biomaterials that can be produced on a large scale at low cost and do not persist in the environment. In the case of unprotected sequences, hydrophobicity is a key requirement to enable gelation, with Phe-Phe standing out for its self-assembling ability. Conversely, more hydrophilic sequences such as homochiral dipeptides Phe-Val and Val-Phe neither fibrillate nor gel aqueous buffers and their crystal structures reveal amphipathic layers. In this work, we test emerging rules for the design of self-assembling dipeptides using heterochiral Phe-Val and Val-Phe. Each dipeptide is characterized by 1H- and 13C-NMR, LC-MS, circular dichroism, infrared and Raman spectroscopies, rheology, electron microscopy, and single-crystal X-ray diffraction. In particular, D-Phe-L-Val is the first heterochiral dipeptide to self-assemble into supramolecular water-channels whose cavity is defined by four peptide molecules arranged head-to-tail. This minimalistic sequence is devoid of amyloid character as probed by thioflavin T fluorescence and it displays excellent biocompatibility in vitro. The dataset provided, through comparison with the literature, significantly advances the definition of molecular design rules for minimalistic unprotected dipeptides that self-assemble into water-channels and biocompatible gels, to assist with the future development of supramolecular biomaterials with fine control over nanomorphological features for a variety of applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ottavia Bellotto
- University of Trieste, Chem. Pharm. Sc. Dept., Via Giorgieri 1, 34127 Trieste, Italy.
| | - Giovanni Pierri
- University of Salerno, Dept. of Chemistry & Biologi "A. Zambelli", Via Giovanni Paolo II 132, 84084 Fisciano, SA, Italy.
| | - Petr Rozhin
- University of Trieste, Chem. Pharm. Sc. Dept., Via Giorgieri 1, 34127 Trieste, Italy.
| | | | - Slavko Kralj
- Jožef Stefan Institute, Materials Synthesis Dept., Jamova 39, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia.,University of Ljubljana, Pharmaceutical Technology Dept., Faculty of Pharmacy, Aškerčeva 7, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Paola D'Andrea
- University of Trieste, Life Sciences Dept., Via L. Giorgieri 5, 34127 Trieste, Italy
| | - Consiglia Tedesco
- University of Salerno, Dept. of Chemistry & Biologi "A. Zambelli", Via Giovanni Paolo II 132, 84084 Fisciano, SA, Italy.
| | - Silvia Marchesan
- University of Trieste, Chem. Pharm. Sc. Dept., Via Giorgieri 1, 34127 Trieste, Italy.
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Scarel E, Bellotto O, Rozhin P, Kralj S, Tortora M, Vargiu AV, De Zorzi R, Rossi B, Marchesan S. Single-atom substitution enables supramolecular diversity from dipeptide building blocks. SOFT MATTER 2022; 18:2129-2136. [PMID: 35179536 DOI: 10.1039/d1sm01824h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Dipeptides are popular building blocks for supramolecular gels that do not persist in the environment and may find various applications. In this work, we show that a simple substitution on the aromatic side-chain of phenylalanine with either fluorine or iodine enables supramolecular diversity upon self-assembly at neutral pH, leading to hydrogels or crystals. Each building block is characterized by 1H- and 13C-NMR spectroscopy, LC-MS, circular dichroism, and molecular models. The supramolecular behaviour is monitored with a variety of techniques, including circular dichroism, oscillatory rheology, transmission electron microscopy, attenuated total reflectance Fourier-transformed infrared spectroscopy, visible Raman spectroscopy, synchrotron-radiation single-crystal X-ray diffraction and UV Resonance Raman spectroscopy, allowing key differences to be pinpointed amongst the halogenated analogues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica Scarel
- University of Trieste, Chem. Pharm. Sc. Dept., Via Giorgieri 1, 34127 Trieste, Italy.
| | - Ottavia Bellotto
- University of Trieste, Chem. Pharm. Sc. Dept., Via Giorgieri 1, 34127 Trieste, Italy.
| | - Petr Rozhin
- University of Trieste, Chem. Pharm. Sc. Dept., Via Giorgieri 1, 34127 Trieste, Italy.
| | - Slavko Kralj
- Jožef Stefan Institute, Materials Synthesis Dept., Jamova 39, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
- University of Ljubljana, Pharmaceutical Technology Dept., Faculty of Pharmacy, Aškerčeva 7, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Mariagrazia Tortora
- Area Science Park, Padriciano 99, 34149 Trieste, Italy
- Elettra-Sincrotrone Trieste, S.S. 114 km 163.5, Basovizza, 34149 Trieste, Italy.
| | - Attilio V Vargiu
- University of Cagliari, Physics Dept., 09042 Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Rita De Zorzi
- University of Trieste, Chem. Pharm. Sc. Dept., Via Giorgieri 1, 34127 Trieste, Italy.
| | - Barbara Rossi
- Elettra-Sincrotrone Trieste, S.S. 114 km 163.5, Basovizza, 34149 Trieste, Italy.
| | - Silvia Marchesan
- University of Trieste, Chem. Pharm. Sc. Dept., Via Giorgieri 1, 34127 Trieste, Italy.
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Smith J, Yufit DS, McCabe JF, Steed JW. The "Magic Linker": Highly Effective Gelation from Sterically Awkward Packing. CRYSTAL GROWTH & DESIGN 2022; 22:1914-1921. [PMID: 35559210 PMCID: PMC9084547 DOI: 10.1021/acs.cgd.1c01470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Revised: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Bis(urea)s based on the 4,4'-methylenebis(2,6-diethylphenylene) (4,4'-MDEP) spacer are highly effective low molecular weight gelators, and the first single crystal structure of a bis(urea) based on this spacer is reported. The structure is a conformational isomorph with eight crystallographically independent molecules (Z' = 8) arranged in four tennis-ball type dimers with the 2,6-diethylphenylene units adopting five different conformations in the ratio 4:5:3:2:2. The awkward shape and conformational promiscuity arising from the orientations of the ethyl groups in this system is linked to its gelation behavior. A total of seven 4,4'-MDEP derivatives have been prepared, and six are versatile gelators, confirming the particularly effective nature of the MDEP spacer. Only the nitrophenyl derivative does not form gels, likely because of intramolecular CH···O hydrogen bonding arising from the electron-withdrawing nature of the nitro substituent and hence inhibition of the urea α-tape hydrogen-bonded motif.
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Affiliation(s)
- James
P. Smith
- Department
of Chemistry, Durham University, Durham DH1 3LE, U.K.
| | - Dmitry S. Yufit
- Department
of Chemistry, Durham University, Durham DH1 3LE, U.K.
| | - James F. McCabe
- Pharmaceutical
Sciences, R&D, AstraZeneca, Macclesfield SK10 2NA, U.K.
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