Exploiting Specific Peptide Interactions to Control Assembly in Thermosets and Solution Assemblies

Project Description

The objective of the proposed research is to construct self-assembled and thermoset materials containing synthetic and biological components whereby the two components work in synergy with one another to improve materials properties such as toughness. The basic thermoset platform is based on combining thiol-ene networks with molecularly designed, site-specific self-assembling peptides to provide toughness and responsiveness to solution conditions. In a separate project, we explore the self-assembly of peptide block copolymers to determine how site-specifically designed peptides interact with one another to affect morphology of the assemblies. The outcome of these projects will expand the mission of the BioPACIFIC MIP regarding the convergence of materials science and biology to create the next generation of advanced materials.

Instruments