Enzyme-mediated degradation of peptide-amphiphile nanofiber networks

Peptide-amphiphile nanofibers are prepared that incorporate a peptide sequence permitting enzyme-mediated degradation (see Figure). Cleavage of the peptide sequence results in breakdown of the nanostructure and, consequently, the mechanical properties. This novel elastic nanofiber network is able to encapsulate dental pulp cells, supporting their proliferation and migration, and mimics several key properties of natural extracellular matrix.