A novel development in the field of 3D cell and organoid cultures involves synthetic hydrogels based on DNA libraries that self-assemble with ultrahigh-molecular-weight polymers, forming a dynamic DNA-crosslinked matrix known as DyNAtrix. This innovative matrix offers precise control over its viscoelasticity, thermodynamic properties, and kinetic parameters by altering DNA sequence information. It allows for adjustable heat activation to embed mammalian cells uniformly and can tune stress-relaxation times across a wide range, mimicking the mechanical characteristics of living tissues.

DyNAtrix possesses self-healing properties, is printable, exhibits high stability, is compatible with cells and blood, and offers controlled degradation. It has been successfully used for cultures involving human mesenchymal stromal cells, pluripotent stem cells, canine kidney cysts, and human trophoblast organoids, showing high viability, proliferation, and morphogenesis. DyNAtrix represents a programmable and versatile precision matrix with applications in biomechanics, biophysics, and tissue engineering.