3D cell growth and proliferation on a RGD functionalized nanofibrillar hydrogel based on a conformationally restricted residue containing dipeptide

Three-dimensional (3D) hydrogels incorporating a compendium of bioactive molecules can allow efficient proliferation and differentiation of cells and can thus act as successful tissue engineering scaffolds. Self-assembled peptide-based hydrogels can be worthy candidates for such applications as peptides are biocompatible, biodegradable and can be easily functionalized with desired moieties. Here, we report 3D growth and proliferation of mammalian cells (HeLa and L929) on a dipeptide hydrogel chemically functionalized with a pentapeptide containing Arg-Gly-Asp (RGD) motif. The method of functionalization is simple, direct and can be adapted to other functional moieties as well. The functionalized gel was noncytotoxic, exhibited enhanced cell growth promoting properties, and promoted 3D growth and proliferation of cells for almost 2 weeks, with simultaneous preservation of their metabolic activities. The presence of effective cell growth supporting properties in a simple and easy to functionalize dipeptide hydrogel is unique and makes it a promising candidate for tissue engineering and cell biological applications.