Novel self-assembling peptide complexes comprising a charged peptide and a polysaccharide, methods of producing them and uses therefore are described. The novel self-assembling peptide complexes have particular utility in the restoration of biomechanical or biochemical function of a variety of biological tissues, for example and without limitation, in degenerated spinal discs, osteoarthritic joints, damaged cartilage, meniscus, ligaments, tendons, dental, ophthalmic and cardiovascular and blood vessel tissues. Methods of repairing and or restoring biomechanical or biochemical function of biological tissues and scaffolds for the support of cell growth are also described.