MICROSCOPE FOR CHARACTERIZATION OF PROTEIN BIOMATERIALS
Abstract
This proposal requests support for a Zeiss 990 Light Scanning Microscope. This microscope will support biomaterials characterization including: mechanical properties including gelation and interactions with cells. It will also expand the lab s research capabilities in a number of ways. The Z-stacking mode will allow for three-dimensional imaging of biomaterials, giving insight into the relationship between their higher-order structure and function. The temperature-controlled stage and automated camera will allow for microrheological studies that give precise information not just on the materials properties but also on their kinetics. The high resolution afforded by a confocal microscope will allow for studies of the distribution of drug delivery vehicles inside the cell, allowing us to engineer systems that will maximize the amount of payload delivered. This instrument will be an asset to the department s new cell culture facility and will provide the means for scientific discovery as well as for the training of a new generation of researchers. The overarching objective of our research is to harness the most powerful methods of synthetic biology and protein engineering to create artificial proteins capable of bottom-up self-assembly as well as pattern such protein materials through top-down approaches. As part of our ARO grant entitled ÒProtein Materials for Wet AdhesionÓ, we are generating protein block polymers capable of assembling hydrogels and patterning them with the aim to develop biological mimics that exert chemomechanical control. Extending this work with our ARL collaborator, we plan to submit for follow on funding related to this research. Moreover, the instrumentation will also support research in DOD areas of interest for engineering select enzymes from microbial communities for detoxification and decontamination of warfare or toxic neural agents. Importantly, the instrumentation system will expose postdoctoral researchers, graduate and undergraduate students to biomaterials synthesis, purification and characterization using state-of-the art equipment and techniques. This summary is publicly releasable.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Feb 15, 2023
- Source ID
- W911NF2310059
Entities
People
- Jin K Montclare
Organizations
- Army Contracting Command
- New York University
- United States Army