Title:

Exploring the Effect of pH on DNA-Intercalating Supramolecular Hydrogels

DNA-based hydrogels (DISHs) are 3D polymeric networks that utilize DNA’s ability to intercalate and form reversible cross-links, enabling tunable mechanical properties and thermal-responsive behaviors. In this study, we synthesized an Acridine-functionalized PEG hydrogel and investigated its viscoelastic response across a range of temperatures (20–50 °C) and pH values (5 and 8). At pH 8, the hydrogel exhibits a more dynamic network with greater thermal responsiveness, while at pH 5, the system shows higher moduli, reduced thermal sensitivity, and slower stress relaxation, indicating stronger and more stable interactions. These enhanced interactions at low pH are likely due to reduced electrostatic repulsion and increased ionic bonding between acridine and the DNA phosphate backbone. These findings demonstrate that pH can be used to modulate network strength and dynamics, offering potential for tuning mechanical properties in responsive hydrogel systems.

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