Molecular Genetic Approaches to Biomolecular Materials
Abstract
We are using protein engineering to produce biomolecular materials that mimic or extend the properties of materials found in nature. Our current focus is on bacterial S layers and the elastomeric protein abductin. For the most part, these studies are in an exploratory phase. In the case of S layers, we are examining the fundamental properties of the SbsB S layer of Bacillus stearothermophilus by structure-function studies using site-directed mutagenesis and targeted chemical modification. The major finding has been the delineation of a mechanism for the in vitro formation of S layers from their SbsB building blocks. Applications of S layers in biotechnology are also being investigated in parallel with these studies and an extensive cysteine-scanning mutagenesis has been performed to determine sites at which the protein can be chemically modified. In addition, in collaboration with the group of Uwe Sleytr (Vienna), we are using S layers to support bilayers containing genetically engineered pore-forming proteins. These materials will serve as rugged biosensor elements. In the case of abductin, a major advance has been the determination of the sequences of cDNAs encoding the protein.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 16, 2000
- Accession Number
- ADA384237
Entities
People
- Hagan Bayley
Organizations
- Texas Engineering Experiment Station