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Advanced Materials

Wiley

Preprints posted in the last 30 days, ranked by how well they match Advanced Materials's content profile, based on 53 papers previously published here. The average preprint has a 0.10% match score for this journal, so anything above that is already an above-average fit.

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Once yearly cell-based therapy for sustained and dose tunable delivery of monoclonal antibodies

Fell, C.; Davis, A. E.; Pandey, S.; Guinn, M. T.; Wang, Z.; DeBonis, J.; Smith, C.; Brown, N.; Murungi, D.; Kim, Y.; Mohandessi, I.; Bednarz, P.; Ardeshir, A.; Haupt, E. M.; Cuevas, S. I.; Lavine, C. L.; Seaman, M. S.; Igoshin, O.; Ghanta, R. K.; Diehl, M.; Veiseh, O.

2026-05-21 bioengineering 10.64898/2026.05.19.726224 medRxiv
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Over 200 monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) are approved for clinical use, yet their therapeutic potential is constrained by dependence on repeated injections or infusions that drive non-adherence, limit access in low-resource settings, and generate peak-trough pharmacokinetics linked to adverse effects and reduced efficacy. Here, we developed an immunomodulatory encapsulated cell-based biologics factory that overcomes mAb instability, immunogenicity, and the fibrotic foreign body response that have limited previous approaches, enabling continuous in situ production of therapeutic antibodies from a single administration. Screening chemically modified alginate biomaterials in immunocompetent mice identified a lead immunomodulatory alginate formulation that sustains stable serum titers of the HIV-neutralizing mAb 3BNC117 for one year. Single-cell RNA sequencing revealed that this formulation promotes a local anti-inflammatory, pro-resolving immune niche that attenuates fibrosis. The platforms versatility was demonstrated by production of thirteen diverse mAbs from an allogeneic cell chassis, with sustained in vivo delivery of a subset including ipilimumab, pembrolizumab, adalimumab, and PGT121. Integration into a retrievable macrodevice enabled on-demand therapeutic termination and re-implantation for dose-proportional tuning. In a non-human primates, subcutaneous implantation maintained stable ipilimumab titers for over six months with no detectable toxicity, anti-drug antibodies, or adverse events, and dose-dependent exposure was confirmed across a three-dose escalation. These results demonstrate a clinically translatable platform offering a practical strategy to replace frequent injections with single-administration therapy.

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Adhesive silk hydrogel patches for localized and sustained delivery of cell-derived nanovesicles

Drack, A.; Tran, A. H.; rai, a.; Rnjak-Kovacina, J.; Greening, D.

2026-05-07 bioengineering 10.64898/2026.05.03.722555 medRxiv
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The transplantation of stem cell-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) holds promise for tissue repair and regeneration, but scalable production and effective delivery to target tissue remain major challenges. Here, we present a biomaterial platform that combines high-yield, scalable nanovesicles (NVs) - EV mimetics derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells - with an adhesive silk hydrogel patch for localized and sustained delivery. We show that this platform enables efficient NV encapsulation via visible light crosslinking and supports controlled release over short (2 days), intermediate (7 days), and extended (up to 28 days) periods, while maintaining adhesion to heart tissue. Importantly, the sustained delivery of NVs for 3 days in vitro results in promoting anti-fibrotic cell remodeling and significant functional recovery of primary myofibroblast activation, modulating integrin signaling, actomyosin organization, and cell-matrix adhesion networks. Finally, we demonstrate biocompatibility, retention, and anti-fibrotic function of the patch in a murine ischemia-reperfusion injury model. Thus, we establish the proof-of-principle that di-tyrosine silk hydrogels can be used as a strategy to encapsulate and deliver NVs to the heart, thus offering an innovative delivery platform for NVs. Statement of significanceExtracellular vesicles (EVs) represent an emerging frontier in tissue engineering. Their cell-specific cargo contains biological information capable of repairing and regenerating injured tissues. However, their clinical translation is hindered by limited manufacturing scalability, undefined dosing and modes of administration, and low organ retention, particularly in the heart. This study addresses these challenges by combining stem cell-derived nanovesicles (NVs), which mimic biological EVs, with an adhesive hydrogel patch for localized and sustained delivery to the heart. We provide proof-of-principle that di-tyrosine photo-crosslinked silk hydrogels are a suitable delivery platform for cell-derived NVs, preserving NV bioactivity and their ability to remodel recipient cells following delivery both in vitro and in vivo. This study integrates three key advantages: (i) the use of scalable iPSC-derived nanovesicles as an EV-mimetic platform, addressing limitations in EV manufacturing; (ii) a mechanically robust and tunable silk fibroin hydrogel formed via visible light-induced di-tyrosine crosslinking without chemical modification; and (iii) an injection-free, adhesive patch-based delivery strategy enabling localized and sustained therapeutic administration to the heart. This innovative platform represents a significant advancement in the fields of nanomedicine and biomedical engineering. O_FIG O_LINKSMALLFIG WIDTH=200 HEIGHT=108 SRC="FIGDIR/small/722555v1_ufig1.gif" ALT="Figure 1"> View larger version (26K): org.highwire.dtl.DTLVardef@fed253org.highwire.dtl.DTLVardef@1a270b0org.highwire.dtl.DTLVardef@19437c1org.highwire.dtl.DTLVardef@1d863ca_HPS_FORMAT_FIGEXP M_FIG O_FLOATNOGraphical abstractC_FLOATNO C_FIG

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Granular Extracellular Matrix (gECM) Hydrogels Enable Distinct Composition and Mechanics Across Tissue Types for Translation

Heye, J.; Blanco, S.; Schneider, S. E.; Visal, A.; Olulana, F.; Miller, E.; Barthold, J.; Bruns, C.; McCabe, M. C.; Maroney, S.; Hansen, K. C.; Neu, C. P.

2026-05-11 bioengineering 10.64898/2026.05.06.723348 medRxiv
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Biomaterials-based tissue engineering aims to recapitulate native tissue architecture and function for both clinical repair and advanced in vitro models. While improvements in biomaterials have been made, including granular hydrogels and ECM-derived scaffolds, current biomaterials lack intentional design choices for effective translation, including regulatory considerations, practical extrusion delivery, and biomimetic characteristics. Here, we develop and characterize a library of granular ECM (gECM) biomaterials for five key tissues (cartilage, bone, skin, liver, and kidney), in which ECM particles are densely packed within a hyaluronic acid hydrogel. We optimize tissue processing methods that preserve proteomic content and structure while also aligning with scale-up manufacturing and regulatory guidelines. We show that gECM hydrogels can be molded, extruded, and 3D-printed while retaining their shape, and they stabilize at physiological temperature and pH. Lastly, we demonstrate that bulk gECM mechanics are driven by tissue type, and gECM hydrogels support viability, proliferation, and tissue-specific cellular activity. Together, these findings establish gECM hydrogels as a translational and biomimetic platform for clinical tissue repair and complex in vitro models.

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Osteoimmunomodulatory Stem Cell Nanoghosts as a Novel Nanotherapeutic for Bone Regeneration

Micheli, G. A.; Yang, T.; Gawlitta, D.; Man, K.

2026-05-13 bioengineering 10.64898/2026.05.11.724218 medRxiv
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Critical-sized bone defects and implant-associated complications are often exacerbated by chronic inflammation, which compromises tissue repair and implant integration. Mesenchymal stromal cell (MSC)-derived extracellular vesicles have emerged as promising immunomodulatory nanotherapeutics; however, their clinical translation remains constrained by low yield, heterogeneity, and poor scalability. Here we present a bioengineered MSC-derived nanoghosts platform designed to overcome these translational barriers while enabling tunable osteoimmunomodulatory function. By coupling high-yield nanoghost fabrication with biomimetic MSC conditioning, we demonstrate that oxygen tension (5 or 21% O2) and 3D culture substrates (5 or 15 wt-% GelMA) can reprogram MSC immunophenotype. Nanoghosts generated under hypoxic and 3D conditions displayed enriched anti-inflammatory cargo, preserved MSC viability under inflammatory stress, and partially rescued osteogenic mineralization in the presence of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Together, these findings showcase MSC nanoghosts as scalable and bioactive immunoregulatory nanotherapeutic capable of modulating immune-bone crosstalk, providing a translational strategy to mitigate inflammation-driven impairment of bone regeneration and implant integration. Graphical abstract O_FIG O_LINKSMALLFIG WIDTH=200 HEIGHT=90 SRC="FIGDIR/small/724218v1_ufig1.gif" ALT="Figure 1"> View larger version (24K): org.highwire.dtl.DTLVardef@1551655org.highwire.dtl.DTLVardef@12d3371org.highwire.dtl.DTLVardef@8c50bborg.highwire.dtl.DTLVardef@834a8_HPS_FORMAT_FIGEXP M_FIG C_FIG

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Decoupled ionic and particulate clearance pathways determine the in vivo fate of a synthetic nanoclay-BMP-2 biomaterial during ectopic bone induction.

Kim, Y.-H.; Milan, J. A.; Kanczler, J.; Janeczek, A.; Oreffo, R. O. C.; Dawson, J. I.

2026-05-06 bioengineering 10.64898/2026.05.01.722265 medRxiv
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Nanoclay-based biomaterials offer promise for localised growth factor presentation, yet their in vivo degradation, clearance, and systemic fate remain poorly defined. Here, we investigate the fate of a synthetic nanoclay-BMP-2 gel during ectopic bone induction using a combination of in vivo imaging, histology, and component-resolved elemental analysis. Fluorescent tracking confirmed prolonged localisation of BMP-2 within the nanoclay gel and robust bone induction despite negligible growth-factor release. Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) revealed divergent clearance kinetics for lithium and silicon, structurally distinct components of the clay crystalline lattice, indicating decoupled ionic and particulate degradation pathways. Early clearance was dominated by cell-mediated fragmentation and the transport of clay particulates, while later stages involved preferential lithium release associated with local clay dissolution as well as integration within newly formed bone. Systemic biodistribution analysis demonstrated rapid, transient lithium release into circulation with renal clearance, contrasted with initial hepatic and then later-phase renal handling of silicon species. Together, these findings define a multiphasic in vivo clearance model for nanoclay biomaterials consistent with progressive remodelling, localised BMP-2 activity and, importantly, safe systemic handling. This work provides mechanistic insight into the activity and clearance of nanoclay-based regenerative therapies and establishes the importance of component-resolved tracking for evaluating the biodistribution of degradable inorganic biomaterials.

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Acoustofluidic Active Flow Sculpting Enables Dynamic, Reconfigurable Cross-Sectional Patterning

Sahin, M. A.; Stoecklein, D.; Park, J.; Destgeer, G.

2026-05-13 bioengineering 10.64898/2026.05.10.724179 medRxiv
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Microstructures created with flow lithography exhibit distinct functionality depending on the shape and composition of the precursor fluids, enabling applications from tissue engineering to anti-counterfeiting. However, current techniques rely on static nozzle geometries or passive hydrodynamic focusing, which commit to a fixed structure and limit dynamic reconfiguration of material architecture during fabrication. Here, we introduce ActiSculpt, an acoustofluidic platform that replaces in-channel physical structures with programmable, electronically driven acoustic streaming. By exploiting the interplay between laminar stability and acoustic streaming, we decouple deterministic fluid deformation from chaotic mixing, achieving a continuous cross-sectional displacement sensitivity of ~15 m/V. We demonstrate the generation of a diverse library of hydrogel particles whose cross-sectional moments of inertia are tunable up to 5.5-fold, establishing a direct, geometry-mediated link between acoustic parameters and the moments that govern bending and torsional rigidity. We further demonstrate continuous fiber fabrication in which acoustic parameters are varied in real time, encoding structural variation along the fibers length. The result is a platform that overcomes the one-device, one-geometry constraint of existing techniques, enabling not only on-demand reconfiguration between fabrication runs but also real-time control of material architecture. This spatiotemporal control establishes a new design axis for soft-material manufacturing.

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Sequence-Defined Digital Bottlebrush Polymers for Programmable Oligonucleotide Delivery

Lin, J.; Sun, T.; Wei, Y.; Xue, C.; Xu, G.; Chen, P.; Wang, Y.; Yang, S.; Cavazos, C.; Shen, C.; Wang, A.; Wang, A.; Zhang, K.

2026-05-13 bioengineering 10.64898/2026.05.09.723525 medRxiv
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Oligonucleotide therapeutics hold transformative potential, yet their clinical translation is hindered by delivery barriers, including rapid renal/hepatic clearance and poor organ specificity. Bottlebrush polymers conjugates have emerged as a promising vector to address these limitations, but conventional architectures with uniform backbones can only achieve an unmodifiable, rigid biodistribution profile. Here, we report a library of sequence-defined "digital" bottlebrush polymers, precisely engineered with controlled placements of chemical motifs that modify physiochemical properties - including lipids, cholesterol, and cationic groups - along a polyphosphodiester backbone. Systematic evaluation of the digital bottlebrush polymer library reveals distinct structure-property relationships and enables organ-biased systemic delivery to several traditionally difficult-to-reach tissues, including muscle and skin. In a mouse model of rheumatoid arthritis, a single dose of a spleen-homing polymer-conjugated antisense oligonucleotide targeting TNF- achieves potent knockdown and drives full functional recovery. These findings establish a versatile design framework for tailoring bottlebrush polymers to specific therapeutic applications.

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Modular Albumin-Chaperoned NIR-II Nanofluorophores Enables Pan-Ovarian Cancer Imaging Across Multiscale Tumor Models

Vasquez, I.; Nash, L.; Shahriar, M. T.; Megahed, M.; Cao-Xue, J.; De Leon, I.; Xu, C.; Bickel, U.; Raghavan, S. A.; Srivastava, I.

2026-05-11 bioengineering 10.64898/2026.05.06.717945 medRxiv
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Ovarian cancer remains the most lethal gynecological malignancy, primarily due to late-stage diagnosis and the challenges of achieving complete cytoreduction. While fluorescence image-guided surgery (FIGS) offers intraoperative visualization, current clinical agents are limited by insufficient brightness, rapid photobleaching, and poor molecular selectivity, particularly in the near-infrared window. Here, we report the rational modular design of ultrabright NIR-II semiconducting polymer (SP) nanofluorophores for high-fidelity ovarian cancer imaging. By nanoconfining of a representative hydrophobic SP within a functional albumin matrix induces a "chaperone" effect that suppresses aggregation-induced quenching and shifts emission in the NIR-II window (1000-1250 nm). This platform integrates a dual-receptor targeting strategy, leveraging intrinsic albumin-receptor interactions (GP60 and SPARC) alongside folate receptor alpha (FR) functionalization. This synergistic approach enables pan-ovarian cancer imaging by ensuring high-affinity binding across diverse tumor phenotypes, regardless of heterogeneous receptor expression. Across a multiscale validation framework, the nanofluorophores demonstrate efficient receptor-mediated endocytosis in 2D cultures and deep interstitial penetration in 3D tumor spheroids. Furthermore, microfluidic tumor-on-chip models incorporating endothelial-like fenestrations confirm controlled extravasation and targeting under physiological shear stress. 3D bioprinted tumor phantoms and ex vivo porcine ovary tissues further confirm that BSA-FA@SP2 provides superior lesion delineation and signal-to-background ratios compared to indocyanine green, a clinical standard. Importantly, the nanofluorophores exhibit excellent hemocompatibility, with minimal hemolysis and negligible complement activation, indicating a non-immunogenic, stealth profile. Collectively, this work establishes albumin-shielded NIR-II nanofluorophores as a robust platform for precision intraoperative pan-ovarian imaging and advances the translational potential of nanotechnology-enabled surgical oncology.

9
Structure-Property-Performance Engineering of Hydrogel Depots for Long-Acting Peptide Delivery

Dong, C.; d'Aquino, A. I.; Sen, S.; Alakesh, A.; Jons, C. K.; Eckman, N.; Williams, C. M.; Nguyen, L. T.; Yan, J.; Saouaf, O. M.; Song, Y. E.; Hall, I. A.; Lu, K.; Manna, M. K.; Kapasi, S.; Kottamasu, S. A.; Wilhelm, T.; Doulames, V. M.; Klich, J. H.; Reineking, W.; Appel, E. A.

2026-05-18 bioengineering 10.64898/2026.05.17.725768 medRxiv
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Controlled release systems for subcutaneous peptide delivery often exhibit a pronounced initial burst release followed by inadequate maintenance of therapeutic exposure, limiting depot lifetime and increasing pharmacokinetic variability. Here, we engineer a dynamic, injectable hydrogel depot technology for months-long delivery of lipidated peptides. Using semaglutide as a model, we establish a modular formulation framework integrating: (i) formulation-driven tuning of depot mechanics to control release kinetics, (ii) cargo complexation strategies leveraging hydrophobic and multivalent ion-mediated interactions, and (iii) oxidative stabilization through sacrificial antioxidant excipients. We evaluated depot performance by rheology, in vitro cargo release, and in vivo pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic studies in rodents. Optimized formulations sustained semaglutide exposure for over six weeks from a single administration with two-fold reduction in peak-to-trough exposure and comparable total bioavailability relative to daily dosing, resulting in improved glucose control, weight regulation, and preservation of pancreatic islet content. These results suggest potential for quarterly dosing in humans. Together, this work establishes integrated and generalizable structure-property-performance relationships that account for cargo-matrix and cargo-excipient interactions across burst, diffusion, and erosion regimes to inform a practical formulation framework for engineering long-acting depots for sustained peptide delivery.

10
Mechanical licensing of functional dendritic cell states for enhanced T cell priming

Chen, Y.-C.; Bluem, A. S.; Joorabi, F. T.; Zhang, K.; Tran, N. M.; Zhang, S.; Makkar, H.; Vining, K. H.

2026-05-21 bioengineering 10.64898/2026.05.19.725170 medRxiv
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The plasticity of dendritic cell (DC) functional state is a major hurdle in DC therapy, yet how DCs acquire distinct states independent of ontogeny remains poorly understood. Here, we demonstrate that changes in matrix stress relaxation mechanically educate DCs to adopt distinct, persistent functional states even after the removal of mechanical cues. Stem cell-derived DCs cultured in a fast-relaxing environment exhibited enhanced antigen presentation, faster migration, and higher expression of T cell-recruiting chemokines. Slow-relaxing DCs, biased towards pro-inflammatory cytokine secretion, were enriched for gene signatures associated with lipid accumulation and stress response. These mechanical responses were conserved across human and murine DCs. Using ovalbumin (OVA) as the model antigen, fast-relaxing DCs elicited a CD8+-biased response in vitro, with higher antigen-specific CD8+ T cell activation and proliferation. In vivo adoptive cell transfer of mechanically educated DCs demonstrated that the fast-relaxing matrix licensed DCs to induce a potent draining lymph node T cell response with more antigen-specific T cells and higher restimulation potential. We further showed that DCs sensed matrix stress relaxation through PI3K signaling and actin branching, mediated by the concerted signaling of IL-4 and GM-CSF. Together, these findings demonstrate the role of matrix stress relaxation on the functional state of DCs and suggest a novel approach to enhance ex vivo cellular engineering by targeting mechanical signaling. Graphical AbstractStem cell-derived dendritic cells (DCs) generated ex vivo are engineered using biomaterial platform with tunable matrix stress relaxation. Mechanical education of DCs is licensed by cytokine signaling, actin branching, and PI3K signaling. Fast-relaxing DCs exhibit higher antigen presentation and faster migration, which enhances their capacity to prime and activate antigen-specific CD8+ T cells. O_FIG O_LINKSMALLFIG WIDTH=200 HEIGHT=81 SRC="FIGDIR/small/725170v1_ufig1.gif" ALT="Figure 1"> View larger version (18K): org.highwire.dtl.DTLVardef@bb6709org.highwire.dtl.DTLVardef@1698c8eorg.highwire.dtl.DTLVardef@8adb0dorg.highwire.dtl.DTLVardef@336d3a_HPS_FORMAT_FIGEXP M_FIG C_FIG

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Sequentially Self-Assembled Supramolecular Nanocomplexes Enable Systemic Cas9 RNP Delivery and In Vivo Tumor Genome Editing

Matsuo, T.; Honda, Y.; Chino, T.; Nomoto, T.; Osakabe, Y.; Miura, Y.; Nishiyama, N.

2026-05-12 bioengineering 10.64898/2026.05.08.723716 medRxiv
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In vivo genome editing with CRISPR-Cas9 ribonucleoproteins (RNPs) holds substantial therapeutic promise, yet rapid bloodstream clearance and the absence of delivery systems capable of systemic tumor targeting have hindered its clinical translation. Herein, a supramolecular ternary complex platform is reported in which Cas9/sgRNA RNPs are co-assembled with tannic acid (TA) and phenylboronic acid (PBA)-conjugated polymers through sequential self-assembly, producing [~]30 nm core-shell ternary complexes that protect RNPs from enzymatic degradation and dissociate selectively at endosomal pH. Upon intravenous administration in subcutaneous tumor-bearing mice, these ternary complexes exhibit prolonged blood circulation and preferential tumor accumulation, achieving 37.2% gene editing at tumor sites compared with only 1.5% for free RNPs. The platform successfully knocks out previously undruggable oncogenes including mutant KRAS and polo-like kinase 1 (PLK1), markedly suppressing tumor growth in vivo. By integrating sequential supramolecular self-assembly with stimuli-responsive cargo release, this strategy establishes a generalizable framework for systemically administered in vivo CRISPR therapeutics.

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Additive manufacturing of PEDOT:PSS electrodes on collagen substrates for soft and bioactive electronics

Liu, T.; Park, J.; Okafor, S. S.; Montgomery, S. K.; Goestenkors, A. P.; Semar, B. A.; Alvarez, R. M.; O'Hare, C. P.; Wu, Y.; Yu, J. S.; Vargas Espinoza, C. J.; Rutz, A. L.

2026-05-12 bioengineering 10.64898/2026.05.08.723335 medRxiv
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Traditional bioelectronic devices are limited by poor biointerfacing due to their substantial mismatch in mechanical and biochemical properties. In tissue engineering, soft and bioactive materials support biointegration by harnessing or mimicking the natural extracellular matrix (ECM). Building bioelectronic devices from ECM should improve their biointegration, yet there are limited methods to fabricate them due to current manufacturing approaches. An additive manufacturing strategy is presented here for collagen-based bioelectronic interfaces that integrates conducting polymer electrodes with ECM-based substrates or encapsulation layers. Addition of poly(ethylene glycol) diglycidyl ether (PEGDE) to poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrene sulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) colloidal dispersions enables direct extrusion-based patterning under mild conditions compatible with collagen substrates, and forms aqueous stable and highly conducting printed patterns (2788 S m-{superscript 1}). The resulting interfaces maintain stable electrochemical performance over 7 days in physiological environments, and support primary human cell adhesion, viability, and proliferation across both material regions. A sacrificial patterning strategy using 3D printed cacao butter further enables spatial control of collagen encapsulation. This approach establishes a framework for fabricating functional bioelectronic devices based on ECM to further enhance device biointerfaces for tissue models and implantable systems.

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Nature-inspired nanodiscs for lesion-targeted delivery reprogram macrophages and attenuate established abdominal aortic aneurysms

He, Z.; Huang, Y.; Wang, Y.; Ren, Q.; Xu, J.; Wang, Q.; Guo, L.-W.; Bao, H.

2026-05-16 bioengineering 10.64898/2026.05.13.724870 medRxiv
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Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a life-threatening vascular disease characterized by chronic inflammation and immune dysregulation, with lesional macrophages playing a pivotal role in disease progression. However, effective and safe delivery of immune modulators to macrophages at the site of AAA remains a major clinical challenge. To address this unmet need, we report a nature-inspired nanodisc platform based on high-density lipoproteins for targeted delivery to lesional macrophages, further engineered with a multi-component targeting strategy incorporating an aneurysm-homing peptide and phosphatidylserine lipids. Nanodiscs encapsulating an anti-inflammatory protein kinase R-like endoplasmic reticulum kinase (PERK) inhibitor remarkably attenuated progression of established AAA in an elastase-induced mouse model. Using a combination of in vivo biodistribution and immune profiling approaches, we demonstrate that nanodisc-assisted PERK inhibitor delivery selectively reprograms the local immune microenvironment and attenuates pathological inflammation in AAA disease models. Notably, a single administration achieves sustained therapeutic efficacy with favorable safety profiles, effectively limiting the progression of established AAA in a clinically relevant setting. This work presents a new avenue of designer nanomedicines for targeted immunomodulation and maybe broadly applicable for a wide range of vascular and immune-mediated pathologies.

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Oxygen-generating cryogel vaccines help overcome tumor antigen tolerance and induce durable anti-tumor immunity in prostate cancer

Nukovic, A.; Bhatt, K.; Colombani, T.; Todorovic, E.; Williamson, L. M.; Noonan, B.; Chang, E. M.; Losada Miguens, L.; Sitkovsky, M.; Bencherif, S. A.; Hatfield, S. M.

2026-05-21 bioengineering 10.64898/2026.05.13.724871 medRxiv
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Therapeutic cancer vaccines represent a promising approach to boost patients own immune system to fight cancer. However, many vaccine candidates have shown limited success in clinical trials in large part due to the insufficient antigen delivery to overcome tolerance and hypoxia mediated immunosuppressive mechanisms. Cryogel-based delivery scaffolds have emerged as a promising platform for cancer vaccines due to their biocompatibility and macroporous structure that allows for effective delivery to infiltrating antigen-presenting cells. However, these systems are limited by rapid, diffusion-mediated burst release of encapsulated recombinant proteins and local hypoxia-driven immunosuppression within the scaffold. Herein, we demonstrate that click conjugation of a tumor-associated protein within cryogel-based vaccines, combined with our new O2-generating platform (Click O2-CryogelVAX), helps overcome immune suppression and weak antigenicity and primes effective anti-cancer immune responses. Sustained antigen delivery promotes cellular memory and Th1-mediated anti-cancer responses. By reversing hypoxia-driven immunosuppression, O2 acts as a powerful co-adjuvant to enhance humoral immunity. Together, Click O2-CryogelVAX supports a robust antitumor response that inhibits tumor growth and prolongs survival in a therapeutic prostate cancer model. These findings support the further research and development of Click O2-CryogelVAX as an effective delivery platform for therapeutic cancer vaccines.

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Discovery and Characterization of Interleukin-4-Specific Affibodies for Affinity-Controlled Protein Release and Macrophage Polarization

Dorogin, J.; Lamichhane, A.; Huang, A. J.; Svendsen, J. E.; Benz, M.; Raghavan, S. A.; Hettiaratchi, M. H.

2026-05-12 bioengineering 10.64898/2026.05.07.723637 medRxiv
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Interleukin-4 (IL-4) is a key immunoregulatory cytokine that promotes type 2 inflammation, drives macrophage polarization toward an anti-inflammatory M2 phenotype, and supports tissue repair. However, clinical translation of IL-4 therapies to modulate the immune response is limited by the need for precise control over its delivery to avoid immune dysregulation. Here, we report an affinity-based strategy to modulate IL-4 delivery and bioactivity using engineered affibody proteins. A yeast surface display library was screened via magnetic- and fluorescence-activated cell sorting to identify two IL-4-specific affibodies with moderate binding affinities (dissociation constants, KD = 459 and 141 nM). Circular dichroism confirmed expected alpha-helical folding, and biolayer interferometry characterized the kinetics of IL-4 binding. Structural modeling using AlphaFold3 and RosettaDock and molecular dynamics simulations using GROMACS predicted distinct binding sites for each IL-4-specific affibody on the IL-4 protein and suggested potential interference with receptor complex formation. Bioactivity studies using murine bone marrow-derived macrophages demonstrated that IL-4 complexed with affibodies maintained Ym1 gene expression but significantly reduced Ym1 protein levels, indicating partial inhibition of IL-4 signaling. To enable controlled cytokine delivery via affinity interactions, affibodies were conjugated to polyethylene glycol maleimide (PEG-mal) hydrogels, which were loaded with IL-4. Affibody-conjugated hydrogels achieved high IL-4 loading efficiency (>90%) and exhibited sustained release over 7 days. Increasing affibody-to-IL-4 ratios significantly reduced both the rate and total amount of cytokine release. Overall, this work establishes IL-4-specific affibodies as versatile tools for tuning cytokine presentation and modulating bioactivity and provides a promising approach for regulating inflammatory responses and advancing cytokine-based therapies with improved temporal control. Graphical Abstract O_FIG O_LINKSMALLFIG WIDTH=200 HEIGHT=163 SRC="FIGDIR/small/723637v1_ufig1.gif" ALT="Figure 1"> View larger version (46K): org.highwire.dtl.DTLVardef@12bdb14org.highwire.dtl.DTLVardef@3c09eeorg.highwire.dtl.DTLVardef@1b00934org.highwire.dtl.DTLVardef@2c4840_HPS_FORMAT_FIGEXP M_FIG C_FIG

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Degeneration-Inspired Architectural States Defined by Voronoi Point Spacing and Surface-Mediated Rescue of Osteogenic Dysfunction in 3D-Printed Scaffolds

Carpenter, J.; Vijaya Kumari, P. K.; Panebianco, C. J.; Boerckel, J. D.; Dean, D.; Vijayan, V. M.

2026-05-19 bioengineering 10.64898/2026.05.16.725650 medRxiv
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Osteoporotic bone degeneration involves progressive deterioration of trabecular microarchitecture, yet most scaffold-based bone tissue engineering studies evaluate osteogenesis in structurally favorable architectures that poorly represent compromised bone environments. Here, we establish a degeneration-inspired Voronoi scaffold platform in which point spacing serves as a single tunable architectural parameter to model transitions from dense mechanically integrated to severely deteriorated trabecular-like microenvironments. Increasing point spacing from 1.25 to 2.5 mm progressively reduced scaffold connectivity and stiffness while shifting deformation behavior from distributed load transfer to localized stress concentration, as confirmed by finite element analysis and mechanical testing. Benchmarking against clinically reported HR-pQCT datasets from postmenopausal women demonstrated that the intermediate 1.75 mm point spacing scaffold represents a clinically relevant compromised trabecular-like state, whereas the 2.5 mm scaffold represents a more severely deteriorated architectural condition. These architecture-dependent mechanical and structural transitions directly regulated hMSC behavior, where high point spacing scaffolds reduced cytoskeletal organization, stress fiber density, and osteogenic mineralization, establishing an architecture-associated osteogenic dysfunction regime. Polydopamine (PDA) coating progressively enhanced cytoskeletal organization and mineralization within architecturally compromised scaffolds without altering scaffold geometry. To quantitatively assess biointerface-mediated functional recovery, a Mineralization Rescue Percentage (MRP) framework was introduced, demonstrating up to 43% restoration of architecture-associated mineralization loss following PDA coating. Collectively, this work establishes a clinically contextualized degeneration-to-rescue biomaterials framework that shifts current scaffold design paradigms beyond structurally favorable architectures toward systematic investigation and functional rescue of architecture-associated osteogenic dysfunction within compromised bone-like microenvironments. Graphical Abstract O_FIG O_LINKSMALLFIG WIDTH=200 HEIGHT=79 SRC="FIGDIR/small/725650v1_ufig1.gif" ALT="Figure 1"> View larger version (36K): org.highwire.dtl.DTLVardef@26833forg.highwire.dtl.DTLVardef@72b2b7org.highwire.dtl.DTLVardef@333083org.highwire.dtl.DTLVardef@b5f2d1_HPS_FORMAT_FIGEXP M_FIG C_FIG Statement of SignificanceMost scaffold-based bone tissue engineering studies evaluate osteogenesis in structurally favorable architectures that poorly represent compromised bone microenvironments associated with osteoporosis. Here, a clinically contextualized Voronoi scaffold platform is established in which point spacing serves as a single tunable architectural parameter to model transitions from mechanically integrated to structurally deteriorated trabecular-like states. By decoupling architectural and surface biointerface effects, the study demonstrates that architectural deterioration alone can drive cytoskeletal disruption and osteogenic failure. Importantly, polydopamine-mediated surface engineering partially restored cytoskeletal organization and mineralization within architecturally compromised scaffolds without altering bulk geometry. A Mineralization Rescue Percentage (MRP) framework was further introduced to quantitatively assess biointerface-mediated functional recovery within degeneration-inspired scaffold microenvironments.

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Decoupling Fabrication from Encoding: DNA-Addressable Template Microparticles for Large, User-Defined Optical Barcode Libraries

Eguchi, A.; Iwamoto, Y.; Narita, H.; Tokuda, H.; Martin, A. M.; Ota, S.

2026-05-13 bioengineering 10.64898/2026.05.10.723434 medRxiv
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Optical barcodes for pooled high-throughput screening must support large libraries while remaining decodable in a single imaging step. Existing approaches often trade design control for manufacturability: deterministic barcodes often require per-code redesign of particle fabrication, whereas stochastic combinatorial barcodes are difficult to generate as predefined batches. Here we introduce a chemically programmable barcoding architecture that decouples particle fabrication from barcode assignment. Using a contact-free multilaminar flow lithography platform with all-around three-dimensional sheathing, we continuously fabricate a universal hydrogel scaffold containing five spatially segregated DNA-addressable domains at rates >106 particles/h. Chosen barcode identities are subsequently written on demand onto the same template batch by domain-selective DNA hybridization. Single-domain measurements resolved 64 candidate optical states, indicating an experimentally informed theoretical upper bound of 645 {approx} 1.1 x 109 barcodes. We further implemented a predefined 59,049-code library by split-pool labeling, achieving an 88% recovery of decoded beads at a stringent posterior threshold (>0.95). After 11 days, >7,800 beads were correctly re-identified at >0.95 accuracy in matched fields of view. This strategy provides a highly scalable, chemically programmable route to build large, user-defined optical barcode libraries with single-image optical readout and longitudinal traceability.

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Falafel-Style Wrapping of AuNPs for DNA Origami Barcodes

Youssef, S.; Swope, T.; Schmidt, T. L.; Goncalves, D. P. N.

2026-05-20 biophysics 10.64898/2026.05.18.725969 medRxiv
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13.8%
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The ability to encode and reliably read nanoscale information is increasingly important for multiplexed biomolecular detection and super-resolution imaging. DNA origami provides a uniquely programmable platform for arranging structural and functional elements with nanometer precision, enabling the creation of identifiable nanoscale patterns. In this context, DNA origami-based barcodes that incorporate gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) to encode either origami geometry or the identity of specific biological targets within defined nanoparticle patterns have been paired with transmission electron microscopy imaging for decoding. However, surface-bond AuNPs may detach during handling, purification, or biological incubation, leading to misidentification or decoding errors in barcode analysis. Here we report a rational design for the controlled encapsulation of AuNPs within DNA origami tubes to enhance nanoparticle retention and structural integrity. We engineered curvature-inducing modifications in a flat rectangular DNA origami scaffold to promote inward folding and confinement of AuNPs. These barcodes can be further functionalized on the outer surface with bioactive aptamers and/or fluorescence dyes, enabling targeted interactions with cells and optical readout. Programable dimerization further expands multiplexing capacity. This design provides a robust framework for structurally stable origami barcodes and advances the development of high-resolution, multiplexed labeling and diagnostic platforms. Graphical abstract O_FIG O_LINKSMALLFIG WIDTH=200 HEIGHT=60 SRC="FIGDIR/small/725969v1_ufig1.gif" ALT="Figure 1"> View larger version (23K): org.highwire.dtl.DTLVardef@686c1aorg.highwire.dtl.DTLVardef@1914c4eorg.highwire.dtl.DTLVardef@28ad47org.highwire.dtl.DTLVardef@8847ca_HPS_FORMAT_FIGEXP M_FIG C_FIG

19
A novel nanobody-based approach for targeting heterogeneous Acinetobacter baumannii isolates and closely related pathogenic Acinetobacter spp.

Breine, A.; Jooris, E.; Valcek, A.; Van Meerbeek, S.; Pardon, E.; Van Haver, D.; Timmerman, E.; Impens, F.; Steyaert, J.; Remaut, H.; Van Molle, I.; Gheorghiu, M.; Tudor, D.; David, S.; Gheorghiu, E.; Van der Henst, C.

2026-05-10 molecular biology 10.64898/2026.05.06.723352 medRxiv
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12.7%
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Acinetobacter baumannii is a top-priority, ESKAPE pathogen that poses a major challenge to human health. The pathogen is difficult to combat due to its extensive arsenal of antibiotic resistance and its protective polysaccharide capsule. In addition, A. baumannii isolates are highly heterogeneous, which complicates the development of rapid detection methods or novel targeted therapeutic approaches. Here, we discovered and characterized a new biotechnological tool, the nanobody H7 (NbH7), along with its conserved target, the surface-exposed Omp25 protein of A. baumannii, and elucidated their interaction at the molecular level. Moreover, we demonstrate that NbH7-functionalized magnetic beads enable selective and efficient capture of A. baumannii from bacterial mixtures, including non-pathogenic intestinal bacteria. This provides proof of concept for a new targeting system that remains effective across diverse A. baumannii clinical isolates and capsule types and holds potential for use in diagnostic cell enrichment and targeted therapies.

20
MXene Protein Corona Interfaces for Molecular Profiling of Alzheimers Disease

Velazquez, S.; Juber, M.; Brindley, D.; Thakur, A.; Anasoori, B.; Lau, E.; Ashkarran, A. A.

2026-05-18 biophysics 10.64898/2026.05.14.725150 medRxiv
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12.6%
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The protein corona (PC) that forms on the surface of nanomaterials upon contact with biological fluids provides a molecular snapshot of the hosts physiological and pathological state. Here, we investigate two-dimensional (2D) titanium carbide (Ti3C2Tx) MXene nanosheets as nanobiointerfaces for capturing Alzheimers disease (AD)-associated plasma protein signatures. Ti3C2Tx MXene flakes were incubated with plasma from clinically diagnosed AD patients and age-matched healthy controls (HC), leading to the formation of Ti3C2Tx MXene-PC complexes. Physicochemical characterization using dynamic light scattering, zeta potential analysis, and transmission electron microscopy revealed disease-dependent changes in hydrodynamic size, surface charge, and PC profile. Proteomic analysis of the isolated PC layers quantified 1,611 proteins without prior fractionation, demonstrating effective enrichment of low-abundance plasma components. Principal component analysis (PCA) revealed consistent separation between AD- and HC-derived Ti3C2Tx MXene-PC proteomes despite inter-individual heterogeneity. Differential abundance analysis identified selective enrichment of heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoproteins (hnRNPs), annexins, and inflammatory mediators in AD-derived PC, implicating dysregulated RNA metabolism, membrane stress responses, and immune activation, hallmark processes in AD pathology. Our findings demonstrate that Ti3C2Tx MXene-PC interfaces act as selective molecular filters that reshape the detectable plasma proteome, enabling disease-associated molecular phenotyping and establishing a versatile nanointerface-driven framework for uncovering AD-related plasma signatures, providing a foundation for future translational diagnostic development.