In this study we successfully used a modular approach to synthesize viscoelastic hydrogels through a combination of covalent and non-covalent interactions. Viscoelastic hydrogels displayed higher loss moduli than elastic equivalents as well as frequency-dependent and stress relaxation behavior. Human hepatic stellate cells (LX-2s) cultured on soft viscoelastic hydrogels showed increased cell protrusions and nuclear localization of MRTF-A compared to equivalent elastic hydrogels. However, no differences in MRTF-A localization were observed in the stiff groups. Overall, the hydrogels developed here will provide insight towards elucidating the role that matrix mechanical properties play in regulating cell processes in both healthy and diseased tissues.
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