3D Hydrogel Formation via a Radical-free and Multiphoton-mediated Oxime Ligation

Abstract

Light is a unique stimulus with high bioorthogonality, enabling spatiotemporal control in the creation and modification of biomaterials. Photopolymerization permits solid materials to be formed from liquid precursors upon directed light exposure. This technique is valuable in the field of tissue engineering due to its ability to create complex structures with high levels of control. Additionally, light’s compatibility with living systems enables cells to be encapsulated within photopolymerized 3D materials, creating a more replicative environment than traditional 2D cultures, and provides a route towards 4D customization with structures that can vary in both time and 3D space. While this technique improves the programmability of hydrogel formation, many photopolymerizations produce free radicals that can be cytotoxic and cause undesired reactions due to their highly reactive nature. Herein, we introduce and utilize a method to create 3D hydrogels via a radical-free and multiphoton-mediated oxime ligation.