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Renovating Neural Networks With Viral‐Mediated Gene Transfer From A Tissue Contacting Matrix Mimic

Researchers engineered a self‑assembling peptide hydrogel (Fmoc‑DDIKVAV) to encapsulate adeno‑associated virus delivering brain‑derived neurotrophic factor (AAV‑BDNF). In a mouse Huntington's disease model, the hydrogel‑mediated delivery achieved markedly higher BDNF expression and neuroprotection in the striatum than direct AAV injection. The matrix scaffold both shields the viral particles and controls their release, extending transduction efficiency. These results suggest a synergistic biomaterial‑gene therapy platform for slowing neurodegenerative disease progression.