Work

Harnessing the mechanical properties of Gelatin methacryloyl hydrogels through cooling-induced entanglement

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Enhancing gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA) hydrogel mechanics without compromising biocompatibility remains challenging, as conventional chemical crosslinking often disrupts degradation behavior. A cooling-induced entanglement strategy effectively improves mechanical performance while preserving biological properties; however, its underlying mechanisms remain unclear. This study demonstrates that extended cooling durations significantly enhance the mechanical properties of GelMA hydrogels. Microstructural analyses reveal cooling-induced formation of compact polymer networks with reduced mesh sizes. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations confirm that the cooling process promotes topological entanglements that govern mechanical reinforcement. Guided by these insights, we propose a theoretical model to predict the stress responses of GelMA hydrogels under various cooling durations, establishing quantitative correlations between entanglement mechanisms and mechanical outcomes. This study provides a fundamental understanding of the interplay between cooling conditions, microstructure, and mechanical performance, offering a robust framework for designing GelMA hydrogels with optimized mechanical properties for advanced biomedical applications.

Source: Theoretical and Applied Mechanics Letters

DOI: 10.1016/j.taml.2025.100622

Authors: Kerong Wu, Wei Jian, Zhongwei Meng, Kailei Xu, Ji Lin

Institution: Ningbo University

Language: English

Topic: Hydrogels: synthesis, properties, applications

Subfield: Molecular Medicine

Field: Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology

Domain: Life Sciences

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,200

Funders: National Natural Science Foundation of China, Ningbo University