Chu Research Group

Dynamic Polymer Networks

Based on reversible covalent or physical interactions, dynamic polymer networks exhibit numerous medically relevant properties, including self-healing, ultra-stretchable, stimulus-responsive, and injectable behavior. Systematic studies that correlate the effects of chemical composition and molecular structure with the mechanical properties and biological response of dynamic hydrogels provide a promising strategy toward biomaterials with controllable therapeutic function.

Fibrous Biomaterials from Extensible Gels

Dynamic, extensible hydrogels represent starting materials for the low-energy, organic solvent-free synthesis of hydrophilic polymer fibers. These bioinspired fibers have the potential to exhibit increased biocompatibility and to be well suited for use in stimulus-responsive and regenerative medicine applications. Establishing design principles for biomimetic materials with tunable mechanical properties is a focus of this research area.

Biocompatible Polymer Coatings

Implantation or application of biomaterials can lead to inflammatory responses or infection that result in the formation of transport barriers between the material and surrounding environment. Synthetic control over the complexation and therapeutic properties of polymer coatings that mitigate such responses would enable a platform design for improved biocompatibility for soft materials.