A catalytically active and recyclable bioelastomer inspired by metalloenzymes

TL;DR

A new recyclable elastomer mimics enzyme functions by using copper ions to generate nitric oxide and scavenge harmful molecules, offering sustainable and biocompatible material for biomedical applications.

Contribution

A bioelastomer with catalytic activity and recyclability, inspired by metalloenzymes, is developed for the first time.

Findings

The elastomer generates nitric oxide and scavenges reactive oxygen species like superoxide and hydrogen peroxide.

The material is fully recyclable by reversing Cu2+ coordination without losing functionality.

It shows high biocompatibility and minimal hemolysis or platelet adhesion in biological tests.

Abstract

Catalysis is a fundamental principle of biological systems, yet synthetic biomaterials seldom incorporate catalytic activity as a core design principle. Here, we introduce a polymeric network constructed by crosslinking imidazole-functionalized polymers using Cu2+ ions, yielding an elastomer with enzyme-mimetic reactivity. This bioinspired design enables sustained nitric oxide (NO) generation in serum and broad-spectrum antioxidant activity against superoxide, hydrogen peroxide, and hydroxyl radicals, mimicking the functions of superoxide dismutase, catalase, and peroxidases. Catalytic activity depends on Cu2+ coordination, confirming a defined structure-function mechanism. The elastomer demonstrates minimal hemolysis, reduced platelet adhesion, and high biocompatibility upon subcutaneous implantation. Remarkably, the material can be fully recycled by a simple immersion in acetic acid that reverses Cu2+ coordination without compromising the integrity of the polymer. This closed-loop feature aligns with circular economy principles and greatly extends the functional lifespan of the material. By integrating mechanical robustness, catalytic activity, and recyclability, this material bridges a critical gap between natural and engineered systems, establishing a new framework for catalytically active and sustainable biomaterials.

Image 1

•Minute amount of copper ions form crosslinks in a tough elastomer.•The materials have inherent catalytic activities.•Bioactivity 1: sustained Nitric Oxide generation.•Bioactivity 2: broad-spectrum Reactive Oxygen Species scavenging.•The bioactive material is fully recyclable without loss of function.

Minute amount of copper ions form crosslinks in a tough elastomer.

The materials have inherent catalytic activities.

Bioactivity 1: sustained Nitric Oxide generation.

Bioactivity 2: broad-spectrum Reactive Oxygen Species scavenging.

The bioactive material is fully recyclable without loss of function.

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