This invention enhances strength and durability of artificial protein-based hydrogels used as tissue scaffolds. It uses ligand binding to control self-association strength in protein complexes through non-covalent interactions. This method boosts shear elasticity and reduces bioerosion rates, enabling the creation of elasticity-controllable tissue scaffolds for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine applications. It can potentially assist stem cell specialization by accurately mimicking tissue elasticity using ligand binding. Background: Polymeric hydrogels, with their high-water content resembling the extracellular matrix (ECM), show great promise as ECM-mimicking biomaterials for treating cardiovascular diseases in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine applications. Modulating the mechanical properties of hydrogels, such as elasticity, is essential for directing stem cell fate and achieving desired tissue regeneration outcomes. However, replicating the intricate nanomechanics of natural proteins in the ECM and cardiac tissues is challenging because of nonspecific chemical cross-linking between protein polymers. Applications:
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