RGD-presenting peptides in amphiphilic and anionic β-sheet hydrogels for improved interactions with cells.

The interest in developing functional biomaterials based on designed peptides has been increasing in recent years. The amphiphilic and anionic β-sheet peptide Pro-Asp-(Phe-Asp)-Pro, denoted FD, was previously shown to assemble into a hydrogel that induces adsorption of calcium and phosphate ions and formation of the bone mineral hydroxyapatite. In this study the integrin binding peptide, Arg-Gly-Asp (RGD), was incorporated into the hydrogel to assess its influence on an osteoblast culture.

Peptide coating applied on the spot improves osseointegration of titanium implants.

The border between an implant's foreign material and the host tissue poses the most challenging conditions for tissue healing. With proper knowledge of the surface properties of the implant many of the side effects experienced following implantation could be eliminated by specifically designed functional coatings. We have recently demonstrated the design of a bifunctional peptide, composed of a β-strand decorated by two pSer residues that adsorb strongly on the oxide surface layer of titanium (TiO), followed by a Glu-rich 'tail' that induces calcified mineralization.