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<\/p>\nThe use of supramolecular interactions (dynamic, \u201cnon-permanent\u201d and reversible interactions) allow scientists to create materials with unprecedented properties such as self-healing. The use of biopolymers, such as DNA and RNA, to create complex 3D structures (DNA origami) is a prime example of the unique results achievable when combining supramolecular chemistry with programmable and periodic biopolymers.<\/p>\n
Peptides are a different type of biopolymer which are receiving increasing interest as potential building blocks in bioinspired supramolecular chemistry. These types of biopolymers can be accessed in large quantities and can be functionalised with non-natural amino acids using robust synthetic methods. Their behaviour as building blocks in supramolecular chemistry is an ongoing and active area of research.<\/p>\n
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In this research project the Palma group will be using a specific type of peptide with a well-defined secondary structure: polyproline helices. These chiral helices are stable (even in short sequences), versatile (ie they can tolerate a wide range of functionalities on their backbone without perturbation of their conformation) and are responsive to external stimuli (eg temperature, pH, nature of the solvent). These properties combined will allow us to programme the peptides to assemble in a variety of ways giving rise to different constructs, each of which will perform a unique task (eg host-guest chemistry, catalysis, programmable assembly and disassembly of a construct).<\/p>\n
The project aims to understand the behaviour of these peptides as supramolecular building blocks in order to rationally design unique smart biomaterials capable of performing chemical catalysis, chemical sensing, chemical separation and drug delivery in a green and biocompatible manner.<\/p>\n