Chemically Responsive Liquid Crystal Polymers with Immobilized Enzymes
Abstract
The integration of functionally active enzymes into shape-reconfigurable materials has potential implications in many areas, including sensing, warfighter performance, energy management, and anti-fouling surfaces. For example, selective actuation of such materials in response to the activity of the immobilized enzyme may be used to trigger a macroscopic shape change (e.g., wrinkling), which alters wettability and thus repellency of toxic warfare agents. Additionally, such materials may be used for sensing and triggering functional performance, via enzyme-induced topographical changes that alter the reflection of light (e.g., for active camouflage). While the science necessary to incorporate enzymes into materials is well established, the breadth of materials used as supports for immobilized enzymes has been limited. As such, the realization of enzyme-containing materials with sophisticated and responsive function has remained elusive. In this project, we will explore the use of stimuli-responsive liquid crystalline polymer networks (LCNs) and liquid crystalline elastomers (LCEs) as novel supports for immobilized enzymes. Of specific interest is understanding how chemical signals can be transduced into localized changes in mechanical and/or optical properties of the polymer. These changes may, in turn, trigger shape transformations, variations in surface topography, and/or changes in color. Notably, by tuning the chemistry of the LCE and/or LCN, the polymer can be designed to respond only to the conversion of the signal by the enzyme. In this way, the incorporation of enzymes will embed specificity and selectivity to the response of the material to the chemical signal. A key component of developing such materials is maintaining enzyme function upon immobilization in LCNs and LCEs. We will investigate the stability of enzymes immobilized in LCNs and LCEs using dynamic single-molecule fluorescence methods. Additionally, the extent to which the activity of the immobilized enzymes induces change in structural and/or optical properties of the LCNs and LCEs will be characterized. This understanding will be critical to engendering innovative materials that exploit the responsive properties of liquid crystalline polymers and specificity and activity of enzymes.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Jun 10, 2019
- Source ID
- W911NF1910349
Entities
People
- Joel L Kaar
Organizations
- Army Contracting Command
- United States Army
- University of Colorado Boulder