Unraveling Instructional Cues for the Dynamic Supramolecular Assembly of Optoelectronically-active Peptides

Project Description

Peptides represent a class of biomolecules that allow for controlled formation of ordered assemblies—offering characteristics that are useful for materials for biomedical and energy applications. The self-assembly process for peptides heavily relies on weak intermolecular interactions that often result in complex and dynamic structures. In our research group, we design a series of functional, as well as multicomponent peptide-based assemblies with optoelectronically-active organic conjugated segments. To fully realize the functionality of these assemblies as biomaterials, we will systematically explore the molecular design, fabrication parameters, and assembly triggers as dynamic instructional cues for functionalized peptide assemblies under physiologically relevant environments. Our long-term goal is to develop optoelectronic biomaterials assembled through macromolecular interactions, useful for modulating the behavior of excitable cells and tissues.

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