Assembly of Bifunctional Aptamer-Fibrinogen Macromer for VEGF Delivery and Skin Wound Healing

Nan Zhao, James Coyne, Ming Xu, Xiaolong Zhang, Akiho Suzuki, Peng Shi, Jinping Lai, Guo Hua Fong, Na Xiong, Yong Wang

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

44 Scopus citations

Abstract

Macromolecular assembly has been studied for various applications. However, although macromolecules can recognize one another for assembly, their assembled structures usually lack the function of specific molecular recognition. We hypothesized that bifunctional aptamer-protein macromers would possess dual functions of molecular assembly and recognition. The data show that hybrid aptamer-fibrinogen macromers can assemble to form hydrogels. Moreover, the assembled hydrogels can recognize vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) for sustained release. When the VEGF-loaded hydrogels are implanted in vivo, they can promote angiogenesis and skin wound healing. Thus, this work has successfully demonstrated a promising macromolecular system for broad applications, such as drug delivery and regenerative medicine.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)1006-1015
Number of pages10
JournalChemistry of Materials
Volume31
Issue number3
DOIs
StatePublished - Feb 12 2019

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • General Chemistry
  • General Chemical Engineering
  • Materials Chemistry

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