NIRT - Nanoscale Engineering of Bilaterally Accessible Biomembrane Mimics

该提案是响应纳米科学与工程倡议，NSF 02-148，类别NIRT。 研究重点是S层蛋白的表征和应用，S层蛋白是位于各种微生物细胞外膜上的分子薄蛋白质片晶体。 晶格包含位于重复晶格位点上的纳米级孔，并且可以用作天然超滤装置。 增强的S-层脂质膜混合结构将在介孔的宏观基质上实现，从而产生功能性的宏观稳定的生物膜模拟物，可通过小分子物质从两侧进入。 纳米多孔金将提供宏观世界的界面。 作为生物膜功能化的模型，溶血素将被组装到S层中用于测量单个分子的通过。 利用这些结构，可以将单链DNA穿过孔并将蛋白质附着到DNA的末端，从而设计从孔捕获和释放DNA。 就更广泛的影响而言，这些结构可以在包括膜和传感器在内的各种设备中找到应用。 计划与NIST和跨大西洋教育计划合作。

This proposal was received in response to Nanoscale Science and Engineering initiative, NSF 02-148, category NIRT. The research focuses on the characterization and application of S-layer proteins, which are molecularly thin protein sheet crystals located on the outer cell envelope of a variety of micro-organisms. The crystal lattices incorporate nanoscopic pores located on repetitive lattice sites and can function as natural ultrafiltration devices. Reinforced S-layer lipid membrane hybrid architectures will be implemented on mesoporous, macroscopic substrates leading to functional, macroscopically-stabilized biomembrane mimics, accessible from both sides by small molecular species. Nanoporous gold will provide the interface to the macroscopic world. As a model of biomembrane functionalization, hemolysin will be assembled into the S-layer for use in measuring the passage of a single molecule. With these structures it may be possible to thread single-stranded DNA through the pores and to attach proteins to the ends of the DNA, thus engineering the capture and release of DNA from the pore. In terms of the broader impacts, these structures may find applications in a variety of devices including membranes and sensors. Collaborations with NIST and a transatlantic educational program are planned.