Aromatic/aliphatic residue balance regulates Cu( ii )-induced supramolecular gel formation and drug release in histidine-containing tetrapeptides

Key Points

• This research investigates how the balance of aromatic and aliphatic residues influences the structure and drug release capabilities of Cu(II)-responsive tetrapeptides.
• Examined Cu(II)-responsive tetrapeptides with varying aromatic and aliphatic residues.
• Analyzed stiffness and drug release properties of formed metallohydrogels.
• Conducted pH-responsive DOX release measurements.
• Metallohydrogels exhibited varying stiffness based on the Ile/Phe balance with Cu(II) coordination.
• Demonstrated pH-responsive drug release, enhancing therapeutic potential of DOX.
• Indicated that the balance of residues significantly affects gel formation and drug release characteristics.