Cell-protective biomaterials based on protease-activated elastin-like polypeptides

Elastin-like polypeptides (ELPs) are promising biomaterials for medical applications due to their non-immunogenicity, scalable synthesis, and tunable self-assembly. Typically, temperature triggers ELP self-assembly, but this method is challenged by the constant human body temperature.

To address this issue, Stanford researchers have invented an ELP that self-assembles in response to a biological stimulus (protease) and can function in isothermal environments like genetically engineered cells, blood vessels, and cancerous tumors. The protease-responsive ELP remains soluble at physiological temperatures but produces an insoluble fragment that self-assembles upon protease exposure.

Stage of Development
In vitro: proof of concept