Protein based bioadhesion: Materials lessons from freshwater mussels

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The freshwater zebra mussel is notorious in the Great Lakes region for its ability to attach to various surfaces. It does this by secreting proteins that form a structure called the byssus, consisting of adhesive plaques that anchor the mussel to the substrate via a series of threads. Little is known about the structure or composition of this adhesive apparatus, and yet this knowledge will be critical for developing novel bioadhesives, which are able to function in wet conditions. This work will also enable the design of targeted strategies for prevention of biofouling by this organism, which has serious environmental and economic consequences.