Phage-derived hydrogels as next-generation cell scaffolds

This project aims to use phage display technology to identify short peptides which interact strongly with the neuronal extracellular matrix protein NCAM (Neural Cell Adhesion Molecule). Once peptides which strongly bind to various isoforms of NCAM are identified, they will be covalently attached to self-assembling peptides already developed by CI Martin and validated as 3D culture scaffolds using notoriously sensitive primary neurons. Outcomes from this novel approach to designing hydrogel scaffolds for 3D cell culture will include the ability to tune 3D cell scaffolds to different extracellular matrix environments, with implications in disease (including neurodegeneration and cancer), osteogenesis and stem cell differentiation.