Using enzymes to control molecular hydrogelation

The expression and distribution of enzymes differ by the types and states of cells, tissues, and organs, thus leading to diverse extracellular and intracellular environments. Using an enzymatic reaction to convert a precursor into a hydrogelator or vice versa, one can control the delivery, functions, and responses of a hydrogel according to a specific biological condition or environment, thus providing an accessible route to creating sophisticated soft materials for potential biomedical applications.