Hierarchical biomaterials structure and properties of protein mineral composites

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Nature presents us with materials showing a remarkable variety of physical, chemical and biological properties. These biomaterials achieve their highly specialized properties through hierarchical assembly involving structural elements at different length scales, from the nanoscale up to the macroscale. Bone is an excellent example of a biomaterial. It combines both "hard" (mineral) and "soft" (proteinaceous) components to produce the appropriate mechanical properties required of this structural material: namely, to withstand stresses while minimizing weight. Bones also serve important metabolic and adhesive functions, providing important ions to the organism as well as a bioactive substrate for cell and tissue growth. Using bone as an inspiration, we are creating new nanostructured, hybrid materials for use as bioactive substrates, matrices and coatings. These multicomponent (protein and mineral) materials serve as model systems with which to test the properties of intermediate levels in the hierarchy of bone structure. In particular, we are investigating the bioactivity of this new class of materials in binding and activating cells, with potential applications in tissue growth and biosensing. By structuring the biomaterials on small length scales, we can precisely control the environment of a single cell to then control and study its activity. In the process of creating and using these materials, we will also contribute to a better understanding of calcification processes, both beneficial (e.g. bone growth) and detrimental (e.g. mineralization of fibrous material which can lead to strokes).