MOLECULAR ALIGNMENT AT FUNCTIONAL BIOTIC/ABIOTIC INTERFACES FOR BIOSENSING
Abstract
The interface between biological molecules and abiotic surfaces is central to the performance of new materials in a wide range of applications spaces including biosensors, biomedical implants and nanoparticle sensing. While understanding the biotic/abiotic interface is an area of intense study, a thorough comprehension of atomic-scale mechanisms for biomolecular binding, conformation, and surface orientation at these interfaces is lacking. Without this knowledge, technological progress is limited to trial and error optimization strategies due to a lack of fundamental science to inform rational design. This is particularly consequential given the desired implementation of such materials in numerous next-generation biosensing technologies relevant to the US DoD mission. Using an integrated experimental-computational approach, atomic-scale peptide structure and morphology at the biotic/abiotic interface will be thoroughly elucidated for graphene electrodes and metallic nanoparticles, platforms central to current technological development at the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL). To do this, we will combine in-situ soft X -ray characterization with advanced biomolecule simulation methodologies. In collaboration with research teams in 711th the Human Performance Wing of the AFRL, we will focus on biorecognition elements (BRE) of interest for real time human performance sensing platforms of direct impact to airmen mission safety and effectiveness. In doing so, we will establish fundamental, binding, conformation, and orientation rules for the biotic/abiotic interface. The combination of experiment and modeling will enable insights beyond what either could afford by
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Aug 12, 2021
- Source ID
- FA95502010430
Entities
People
- Nicholas M Bedford
Organizations
- Air Force Office of Scientific Research
- United States Air Force
- University of New South Wales