Overview of research areas and collaborative projects of the CRC

The overall aim of this new CRC "Dynamic Hydrogels at Biointerfaces" is to integrate this unique expertise in chemistry, biophysics and theory of complex macromolecular systems with the biomedical expertise in the areas of lung and gastrointestinal diseases at the Charité into a coordinated research program that is poised to advance our current understanding of hydrogel dysfunction (mucus and glycocalyx) in the pathogenesis of common human diseases. There is a clear perspective towards identification of novel therapeutic targets and development of prudent strategies for preventive and therapeutic intervention. To achieve this goal, we propose the detailed investigation of three major areas:

• Project Area A: Hydrogel dynamics and function
• Project Area B: Hydrogel barrier and defense properties
• Project Area C: Hydrogel mimetics and modulators

within this proposed CRC, that are interlinked with each other.

We are convinced that only by a transdisciplinary approach between biology, chemistry, material sciences, medicine and physics we will be able to investigate and understand the complex and dynamic hydrogel networks at the native biointerfaces of the airways and intestine, and ultimately develop biologically inspired therapeutic strategies that are based on such a fundamental molecular understanding.