Exploring design rules for using supramolecular hydrogels to mimic the extracellular matrix

In human tissue, the cells are embedded in the extracellular matrix. This matrix is made up of fiber-like structures that provide firmness to the tissue, but also influence cell behavior and facilitate cell growth.

Ph.D. candidate Laura Rijns researched how you can mimic the matrix using supramolecular hydrogels. The design rules she composed to this…