Synthesis, biophysical characterization and penetration of mucus-inspired dynamic hydrogels
(B03)
Subject Area
Preparatory and Physical Chemistry of Polymers
Term
since 2021
Project identifier
Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 431232613
We will synthesize and biophysically characterize novel mucin-inspired polymers (MIPs) that are capable of mimicking native mucus hydrogel biobarriers. On the synthesis side, we will incorporate mucus-mimetic sugar derivatives, which brings MIP-based hydrogels closer to native mucus and fine-tunes their interaction with pathogens (viruses and bacteria). To quantify this functionality, we will establish advanced microscopic approaches that enable to follow the 3-dimensional motion of pathogens across native mucus in outstanding detail. The resulting knowledge will be used to optimize pathogen-blocking strategies by revising the design of MIPs.
DFG Programme
Collaborative Research Centres
