Cell-adhesive hydrogels composed of peptide nanofibers responsive to biological ions

Newly designed β-sheet peptides bearing the calcium ion binding Glu residue were self-assembling into self-supporting hydrogels. The hydrogelation from the viscous sol-state solution can be induced by a slower self-assembly process followed by a rapid injection to Ca2+ solution. Peptide gel strings can be easily constructed. Cell culture experiments demonstrated low toxicity and high-adhesive abilities of the peptide hydrogels.