New trends in the development of multifunctional peptides to functionalize biomaterials

Abstract

Improving cell-material interactions is a major goal in tissue engineering. In this regard, functionalization of biomaterials with cell instructive molecules from the extracellular matrix stands out as a powerful strategy to enhance their bioactivity and achieve optimal tissue integration. However, current functionalization strategies, like the use of native full-length proteins, are associated with drawbacks, thus urging the need of developing new methodologies. In this regard, the use of synthetic peptides encompassing specific bioactive regions of proteins represents a promising alternative. In particular, the combination of peptide sequences with complementary or synergistic effects makes it possible to address more than one biological target at the biomaterial surface. In this review, an overview of the main strategies using peptides to install multifunctionality on biomaterials is presented, mostly focusing on the combination of the RGD motif with other peptides sequences. The evolution of these approaches, starting from simple methods, like using peptide mixtures, to more advanced systems of peptide presentation, with very well defined chemical properties, are explained. For each system of peptide's presentation, three main aspects of multifunctionality-improving receptor selectivity, mimicking the extracellular matrix and preventing bacterial colonization while improving cell adhesion-are highlighted.

Biocompatibility pathways and mechanisms for bioactive materials: The bioactivity zone

“…Reese et al discuss the development of what they refer to as peptidomimetics, which are sequence-controlled molecules that exhibit different folds and morphologies that create new structures and functions which mimic the natural peptides [ 63 ]. Alternatively, molecules may be synthesized with combinations of peptide sequences with complementary or synergistic effects so that they can address more than one biological target at the biomaterial surface [ 64 ]. Examples here include the ability to improve receptor selectivity by combining RGD with the PHSRN sequence and combining the RGD motif with BMP-2-derived peptides.…”

Graphene Oxide–Protein-Based Scaffolds for Tissue Engineering: Recent Advances and Applications

“…Thus, this strategy may be a way to capitalize on the benefits of native ECM proteins while avoiding their well-documented drawbacks. Under these circumstances, the functionalization of biomaterials by combining peptides has grown in significance in the field of tissue engineering in recent years [72].…”

Photoluminescent nanocluster-based probes for bioimaging applications

“…Peptides are short chains of amino acids (usually no more than 50 residues) connected by amide bonds, which are naturally present in various organisms, where they exert specific biological functions. Differently from larger proteins, rationally designed peptides with specific amino acid sequences, and consequently with specific functionalities, can be easily obtained through solid-phase synthetic techniques [49]. Over the past few decades, peptides have been widely used as stabilizing ligands in the synthesis of metal NCs, thanks to their simple composition and well-organized structures [50,51].…”