Abstract: Alpha-Synuclein mutants and uses thereofare disclosed herein. The mutants of the present invention are non-self-aggregating forms of Alpha-Synuclein which make them a suitable candidate for use as substrates in aggregation assay for evaluating the presence of misfolded ?-Syn protein. Also disclosed are kits and method for detection of synucleinopathies in individuals, using the mutants of the present invention.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the formation of hydrogels from poly-amino acids designed from the ?-aggregation-prone region of functional amyloidogenic proteins that self-assemble to form a three-dimensional nanofibril matrix. Further, these water entrapped meshwork can be modulated by various physico-chemical cues. The present invention also explores the use of the designed hydrogels as cell and tissue adhesive biomaterial for tissue engineering applications. The present invention also relates to the application of functional amyloid hydrogel including but not limited to 3D tumoroid model for anticancer drug testing, optimization of drug dosage including drug-resistant tumors, repurposing of existing drugs, and patient-derived organoid. The present invention also describes the use of functional amyloid hydrogel as a depot for controlled and sustained release of therapeutics and biologic agents encapsulated within the same.