Modulating protein phase behavior: cell functions vs material development

近年来，人们认识到细胞蛋白质可以经历液-液相分离，然而，进一步的液-固转变可能导致异常的生物过程。该项目旨在研究和控制这种行为，以深入了解细胞功能障碍和生物材料开发的新途径。一个综合的方法相结合的微流体平台，光学技术和振动光谱将被利用。该项目的预期成果包括对蛋白质相行为和基于蛋白质的生物材料工程的机械理解。这将在防止异常蛋白质聚集和产生作为塑料替代品的材料方面提供显著的益处。

It has been recognized recently that cellular proteins can undergo liquid-liquid phase separation, however, a further liquid-to-solid transition can lead to aberrant biological processes. This project aims to investigate and control this behaviour to gain insights into cell dysfunction and new routes for biomaterials development. An integrated approach combining microfluidic platforms, optical techniques, and vibrational spectroscopy will be exploited. Expected outcomes of this project include the mechanistic understanding of protein phase behaviour and protein-based biomaterial engineering. This should provide significant benefits in the prevention of aberrant protein aggregation and the generation of materials as plastic substitutes.