Instantaneous micropatterning of a double-network hydrogel surface triggered by mechanical force

Abstract

Instantaneous patterning on soft material surfaces, such as hydrogels, is important in various research fields; however, it is extremely challenging. Existing strategies for soft material surface patterning are time-consuming and have poor chemical versatility. Herein, we show how micropatterns can be rapidly created on tough double-network (DN) hydrogel surfaces via sacrificial bonds and mechanical force-triggered radical polymerisation. Micropatterning is performed by local mechanical forces, which initiate radical polymerisation in a process zone in the presence of unsaturated monomers, resulting in on-demand functional patterns with a variety of geometries and chemistries. Such force-triggered activation occurs within seconds and is applicable to diverse monomers. To demonstrate potential applications, we engineered topographies and chemistries on DN hydrogel surfaces to control cell adhesion and water droplet directional transport.

Recent Advances in Quinone Methide Chemistry for Protein-Proximity Capturing

“…With these well-established toolsets via QMC, interpreting interaction between protein-protein and beyond have been proven to be rather successful in a highly cell-selective and efficient manner. Further direction may focus on exploring biocompatible (especially complementary with APEX, QMC methods in cell lines), readily available (avoiding complicated synthetic procedure), highly selective tools (enhanced specificity), and feasibility (cell-membrane permeability), i.e., far-red light, force, heat, and microwave 37 38 triggerable tools that can be used in living organism with more precise, easy-handling, and viability.…”