CHAPTER 8: Regenerative Medicine Applications of Peptide Hydrogels

The natural extracellular matrix is a balanced combination of various types of biomacromolecules, which can be successfully mimicked through tailored peptide hydrogel systems. This type of biomimicry has been especially important for regenerative medicine applications, where stem cells are required to be induced through extracellular signals in order to regenerate damaged tissue. The various ligands on the natural extracellular matrix molecules can be easily presented on peptide hydrogels, either by themselves or through various combinations. The mechanical characteristics of the peptide hydrogels, including their self-assembling and nanofibrous properties, also make these materials ideal candidates for cell culturing in a biocompatible manner and inducing regeneration in vivo. This chapter will summarize some of the major advances in the use of synthetic and natural peptide gels for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.