Porous peptide frameworks to host organic molecules and solid-state reactions

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The proposed research will utilize peptide materials as a novel green matrix for storing organic molecules and conducting synthetic reactions in the solid state. The obtained data will form basic knowledge for future studies and applications of solid peptide-based materials. The formation of inclusion compounds and co-crystals will be determined using screening techniques. The crystal structure and stability of the new materials will be elucidated. Finally, the reactivity of molecules in the solids will be investigated in detail.******The layered supramolecular architecture of peptides and incorporation of guest molecules in the interlayer space will be exploited. It is proposed that the architecture can be used for selective inclusion, stabilization and storage of various organic species, as well as a reaction vessel for solid state reactions. The desired inclusion properties and reactivity could be achieved through a proper control by weak non-covalent interactions such as hydrogen bonds and van der Waals forces. ******The reactions will be induced either thermally or photochemically. Two model reactions will be investigated in detail: thermally induced cyclization of dipeptides and [2+2] photodimerization of unsaturated molecules residing in the peptide matrix. The incidence of the reactions, the conversion rate, yield and stereospecificity will be studied as a function of the molecular structure of the reagent, solid state structure of the crystal, and external conditions used. Better understanding of these two types will help to extend the synthetic strategies to other types of solid state reactions in these materials. Further, the reactivity of longer oligopeptides will be studied as a function of the molecular size and crystal structure they form. ******The chemical transformations of short peptide molecules in the solid state and chemical reactions that involve other molecules incorporated in the peptide solids will be studied as a potential alternative to currently used solvent-based synthetic methods. The obtained knowledge will contribute to future economic development by replacing current industrial processes with new procedures that satisfy the principles of Green Chemistry. The proposed research will also identify new uses of peptides in pharmaceutical, food and cosmetic industries through the introduction of novel peptide-based solids where the bioactive molecules are incorporated and through identification of the stability limits of these biocompatible, environmentally friendly materials.******The proposed plan implies involvement of young researchers both on graduate and undergraduate levels with a great opportunity to learn novel approaches to organic synthesis, solid state chemistry, physicochemical analysis including crystallography, thermal analysis and spectroscopic techniques.