This mini-review examines key classes of short peptides capable of self-assembly into nanostructured hydrogels for biomaterial applications, with an eye for the current patent landscape. Systems reviewed are the ones based on heterochiral short peptides, N-protected peptides with aromatic moieties to induce π-π stacking (e.g., Fmoc, naphthalene), peptide amphiphiles displaying alkyl chains, amphiphilic peptides, beta-hairpin systems. Patents related to their more general use in cell culture or more tissue-specific applications are also briefly discussed. Concluding remarks on current and future developments will provide a perspective on the direction that this field is undertaking.
