Photo-Dimerization Induced Dynamic Viscoelastic Changes in ABA Triblock Copolymer-Based Hydrogels for 3D Cell Culture

Cells sense and respond not only to biochemical signals but also to biophysical signals (e.g., matrix elasticity). In addition to matrix elasticity, recent studies have revealed that viscoelasticity (e.g., stress relaxation) significantly affects cellular functions, such as spreading, proliferation, and differentiation. Herein, we describe a cytocompatible and dynamic hydrogel that is comprised of well-defined ABA triblock copolymers, which enable significant changes of viscoelastic properties solely by UV light irradiation. The A block contains N-isopropylacrylamide and an acrylate monomer with a coumarin side chain, whereas the B block is biocompatible poly(ethylene oxide). The triblock copolymer forms a physically cross-linked hydrogel under physiologically relevant conditions. However, under UV light irradiation, the viscoelasticity of the hydrogel is dynamically modulated due to the photodimerization of coumarin moieties. After UV illumination, rheological properties of the hydrogel are drastically different, indicating the formation of chemical cross-linking points in the hydrogel. Finally, we demonstrate that the dynamic change in the viscoelasticity of the hydrogel has a significant influence on the behavior of encapsulated cells.