# 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.

## Key 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.