Utilizing conformational changes for patterning thin films of recombinant spider silk proteins
Research output: Contribution to journal › Research article › Contributed › peer-review
Contributors
Abstract
Recombinant spider silk proteins mimicking the properties of dragline silk proteins represent a class of materials that hold great potential for future high-performance applications. Here we explore the self-assembly behavior of a recombinantly produced spider silk protein based on the dragline silk of the Araneus diadematus, eADF4 (C16), by selectively patterning its secondary structure using capillary transfer lithography and solvent-assisted microcontact molding. Two conformational transitions were observed, influenced by initial solvent composition: α-helix/random coil conformation to a more densely packed β-sheet conformation (by casting from 1,1,1,3,3,3-hexafluoro- propanol) and moderate initial β-sheet content to higher β-sheet content (casting from formic acid). Furthermore, by using the solvent-assisted microcontact molding technique, we were able to achieve a submicrometer spatial resolution and reveal fine details of morphological and mechanical changes in patterned regions and at interfaces.
Details
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 3189-3199 |
Number of pages | 11 |
Journal | Biomacromolecules |
Volume | 13 |
Issue number | 10 |
Publication status | Published - 8 Oct 2012 |
Peer-reviewed | Yes |
Externally published | Yes |
External IDs
PubMed | 22947370 |
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