It is not clear, however, how these macroscopic hydrogel properties relate to the behavior of ∼200 FG Nups in the NPC given the marked differences between length scales, the in vitro requirements for gelation, and in vivo conditions in the cell.
A novel FRET-based hydrogel platform was designed to characterize the accessibility of the substrate within the cross-linked, macroscopic hydrogel.
A successful inversion test confirmed stable macroscopic hydrogel formation.
Such an option is attractive from a logistical perspective because it is less invasive than the surgical implantation typically required for macroscopic hydrogel scaffolds.
While macroscopic hydrogels are appropriate for some biological applications, there are numerous applications wherein nano- to micrometer length scales are important.
The dynamic mechanical behavior of the macroscopic hydrogels and their swelling features in the presence of different liquids or vapors have been investigated to orientate the choice of the best responsive material and curing process.
Macroscopic hydrogels are commonly used as injectable scaffolds or fillers, however they may easily obstruct blood vessels, which poses risks and limits their clinical use.
The macroscopic hydrogels exhibit high porosity, good mechanical strength, superior adsorption performance (with methylene blue adsorbance of 615 mg g−1), and readily recycle properties.
The presented data based on several surface analytical methods, demonstrate that despite the different synthesis conditions the nanoscopic films synthesized in DMF are a suitable model for the macroscopic hydrogels synthesized in water.
But Mr. Van Cotthem, developer of TerraCottem, hopes that product refinements and price reductions will allow hydrogels to reach their full potential.
