Biopolymer microcapsules with dynamically switchable properties as a tool-box for tissue engineering

• Applicants: Professor Dr. Oliver Lieleg; Professorin Berna Özkale Edelmann
• Subject Area: Biomaterials
• Term: since 2024
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 544948101

In this project, we will create microcapsules from biopolymers in such a manner, that we can not only control the morphology of the capsules during the microfluidic production process but that we are also able to switch the mechanical properties of the capsules at later time points. To this end, we will combine two biopolymers, i.e., alginate and mucin, and we will utilize a combination of transient and covalent cross-links to create stable microcapsules comprising interpenetrating biopolymer networks. Then, we will study the differentiation behavior of selected stem cells encapsulated into those microgels, and we will determine the protective abilities of the bioactive mucin component of the microcapsules.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants