Functional Materials Based on Amino Acid Supramolecular Assemblies
Abstract
The self-assembly of proteins and peptides has gained increasing interest for the construction of functional materials. However, their chemical structures are usually complex and the synthesis is expensive, thus raising a requirement for simple building blocks. In contrast, amino acids are among the simplest biological building blocks capable of forming discreet supramolecular nanostructures. In spite of their minimal structure, amino acid assemblies can show rigidity and piezoelectrical response that is superior to protein structures. Moreover, specific packing dramatically affect their properties. Thus, understanding amino acid organization, dynamics and corresponding physical properties is of high importance. In-depth and systematic understanding of the self-assembly, co-assembly and physicochemical properties of amino acids will benefit the fabrication of novel biomaterials with unique properties. In the proposed research, our objective is to explore the unique properties of minimalistic amino acid architectures and their technological use in materials science. First, we will identify the optimal conditions for the self-assembly of all coded amino acids, while considering their alternative packing modes. Each amino acid assembly will be analyzed, allowing to obtain high resolution characterization of the organization. The architectures will be examined for thermal stability, as well as for mechanical, optical and electrical properties. In addition, we will study the combination of various amino acids and enantiomers in the co-assembly of organized supramolecular structures to increase the structural space. Finally, based on the specific characterization of each amino acid assembly, we will aim to demonstrate a proof-of-concept for their application in optical and electric devices. Our approach offers an attractive and cost-effective direction to fabricate biocompatible assemblies with notable physical properties that could be used in diverse applications.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Jan 21, 2022
- Source ID
- FA86552117004XX0
Entities
People
- Ehud Gazit
Organizations
- Air Force Office of Scientific Research
- Tel Aviv University
- United States Air Force