Bioorganic Methodology to Create Novel Biomolecular Platforms to Address Critical Needs in Molecular Recognition and Function

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This research program focuses on the creation of novel biomolecular scaffolds that will become key elements in the chemical design of selective affinity receptors for small organic and inorganic molecules as well as unique molecular frameworks useful in controlling macromolecule interactions with chemical surfaces and advanced materials. The creation of innovative molecular recognition systems is a critical enabling technology that underpins the development of new materials and therapeutic agents for society. Various levels of biomolecular complexity will be explored by these chemical approaches. Chemical and biochemical manipulation of complex multisubunit proteins and viruses will be undertaken to serve as unique, self-assembling biomolecular platforms valuable for materials and biomaterials science. Currently intense interest is being directed toward the application of large multisubunit proteins and viruses to the synthesis of molecular scaffolds able to "hang and orient" photovoltaic systems, or to serve as building blocks for the fabrication of biomolecular batteries, novel biofibers or drug delivery systems. Hence there is exceptional need for developing the chemistry of these complex structures and to train the next generation of scientists to contribute to the application of renewable biosystems to materials science, energy systems and therapeutics.