It
has recently been shown that native ds-DNA and chitosan can
coassemble without common phase separation and precipitation, forming
a translucent homogeneous hydrogel. This simple approach consists
of progressive charging of the polysaccharide through gradual acidification
of a solution in the presence of DNA, which slowly strengthens the
electrostatic interactions between them, ruling out fast and uncontrolled
cooperative association, which is a well-known problem associated
with coacervation. Homogeneous hydrogels thus fabricated demonstrated
mechanical properties characteristic of quite strong physical hydrogels.
Extraordinary mechanical strength and elasticity have been observed
in aerogels prepared from an original hydrogel and also in hydrogels,
which were restored by the rehydration of aerogels. Aerogels match
highly cross-linked synthetic polyurethane foams despite DNA with
chitosan being bound only via electrostatic interactions without using
a toxic cross-linking agent. Owing to their biocompatibility, biodegradability,
and available renewable resources, hydrogels and aerogels might replace
typical synthetic polymers. The fabrication of bionanocomposites with
luminescent, sensing, and photocatalytic functionalities by entrapping
quantum dots, titania nanoparticles, and dyes demonstrates some possible
applications.