Transglutaminase-catalyzed preparation of human elastin-like polypeptide-based three-dimensional matrices for cell encapsulation.

Elastin is a specialized component of the extracellular matrix and constitutes an interesting model for bio-inspired material design with a high potential for applications in biomedical and biotechnological fields. In this work, we have focused on the set up of a simple, enzymatic method for the preparation of three-dimensional matrices based on an human elastin-like biomimetic polypeptide. The matrices were described and assayed as culture substrate for cell seeding and growth. An advantage of the here-presented method is the use of mild conditions that preserve cell viability. This can be a powerful tool for many applications that require direct embedding of cells in the matrix.