Abstract: Crosslinked proteins, proteins and polymers, and polymers and methods of making the same are disclosed. In one illustrative embodiment, a method is provided comprising the steps of attaching a chelator to one or more polymers; creating a coordination complex between the first protein, the second protein, and a metal ion; and crosslinking the first and second proteins by exposing the coordination complex to an oxidant.

Abstract: Described herein is the synthesis of reinforced adhesive complex coacervates and their use thereof. The reinforced adhesive complex coacervates are composed of (a) at least one polycation, (b) at least one polyanion, and (c) a reinforcing component. The adhesive complex coacervates described herein can be subsequently cured to produce strong, cohesive adhesives. The reinforced adhesive complex coacervates have several desirable features when compared to conventional adhesives. The reinforced adhesive complex coacervates are effective in wet or underwater applications. The reinforced adhesive complex coacervates described herein, being phase separated from water, can be applied underwater without dissolving or dispersing into the water. The reinforced adhesive complex coacervates have numerous biological applications as bioadhesives and bioactive delivery devices.

Abstract: Described herein is the synthesis of adhesive complex coacervates. The adhesive complex coacervates are composed of a mixture of one or more polycations, one or more poly anions, and one of more multivalent cations. The polycations and polyanions in the adhesive complex coacervate are crosslinked with one another by covalent bonds upon curing. The adhesive complex coacervates have several desirable features when compared to conventional bioadhesives, which are effective in water-based applications. The adhesive complex coacervates described herein exhibit good interfacial tension in water when applied to a substrate (i.e., they spread over the interface rather than being beaded up). Additionally, the ability of the complex coacervate to crosslink intermolecularly increases the cohesive strength of the adhesive complex coacervate. The adhesive complex coacervates have numerous biological applications as bioadhesives and drug delivery devices.

Abstract: Crosslinked proteins, proteins and polymers, and polymers and methods of making the same are disclosed. In one illustrative embodiment, a method is provided comprising the steps of attaching a chelator to one or more polymers; creating a coordination complex between the first protein, the second protein, and a metal ion; and crosslinking the first and second proteins by exposing the coordination complex to an oxidant.