Wavelength-Orthogonal Stiffening of Hydrogel Networks with Visible Light

Herein, we introduce the wavelength-orthogonal crosslinking of hydrogel networks using two red-shifted chromophores, i.e. acrylpyerene (AP, lambda(activation)=410-490 nm) and styrylpyrido[2,3-b]pyrazine (SPP, lambda(activation)=400-550 nm), able to undergo [2+2] photocycloaddition in the visible-light regime. The photoreactivity of the SPP moiety is pH-dependent, whereby an acidic environment inhibits the cycloaddition. By employing a spiropyran-based photoacid generator with suitable absorption wavelength, we are able to restrict the activation wavelength of the SPP moiety to the green light region (lambda(activation)=520-550 nm), enabling wavelength-orthogonal activation of the AP group. Our wavelength-orthogonal photochemical system was successfully applied in the design of hydrogels whose stiffness can be tuned independently by either green or blue light.

Automated summary

In this study, we present a wavelength-orthogonal crosslinking method for hydrogel networks using two red-shifted chromophores. The photoreactivity of one chromophore is pH-dependent, and by incorporating a suitable photoacid generator, the activation wavelength of the other chromophore can be selectively controlled. This system was successfully applied to the design of hydrogels with independently tunable stiffness using green or blue light.