Molecular gels comprised of cyclic peptides

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Our long-term research objective is to develop a quantitative and qualitative understanding of the relationship between molecular and supramolecular structures and the macroscopic properties of self-assembled low molecular weight organogelators (LMWG) (i.e., compounds which gel apolar solvents). Unfortunately, researchers are faced with a lack of fundamental knowledge and a priori tools pertaining to the molecular characteristics and interactions required for self-assembly in molecular gels causing researchers to rely on serendipity rather than rational design to discover new classes of gelators. As such, when potentially new gelators are stumbled upon, the research community is eager to understand the mechanisms evolved in their gelation. During an attempt to grow single crystals of a cyclic peptide, Prairie Tide Chemical found, much to their dismay, the solvent was being gelled at very low concentrations of their peptide. Our research is rather simple in that we attempt to not only understand the processes involved in their formation but also to harness this technology in hopes of creating new and exciting materials. The PI's desire to attain a fundamental understanding of self-assembled fibrillar networks has inspired this bottom-up approach to the basic question-what drives some molecules to form molecular gels? Self-assembled low molecular weight organogelators are becoming a more feasible alternative to fat crystal networks to structure lipid food products, cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. Furthermore, their mechanism of assembly is synonymous to numerous important biological assemblies that influence health including: prion protein aggregation and amyloid plaque formation. Fundamental knowledge gained from this program will be transitioned into the pharmaceutical, cosmetic and petroleum areas for nano-structured controlled delivery systems. This research directly benefits Canadian consumers along with food and pharmaceutical industries. Extensive fundamental knowledge of organogels, self assembly and advanced instruments used in the field of nano-technology will prepare HQP for careers in academia, government or industry.