Novel peptide-based hydrogels hold great promise for tissue engineering applications Tissue-engineering scaffolds built around ultrashort peptides provide a new platform for studying bone regeneration in the lab. The peptides developed at KAUST self-assemble into a cartilage-like hydrogel that mimics the natural matrix that underpins bone formation in the body. Its physiologically relevant properties enable this cell-friendly biomaterial to support the growth and development of bone marrow precursor cells. It also enables tubular blood vessels to take shape, which is a critical part of bone health and repair. Our system is a simple, efficient and robust model that closely resembles the complex architecture of native bone tissue. Using these peptide-based hydrogels, we can now build 3D disease models for tissue engineering, biomedical research and drug testing."