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
• Subproject of: SFB 1449: Dynamic Hydrogels at Biointerfaces
• Applicant Institution: Freie Universität Berlin
• Project Heads: Dr. Stephan Block; Professor Dr. Rainer Haag