Cytomimicry: Fabrication of Biofunctionalized Materials Through Biotic-Abiotic Interfacing

GRADUATE SEMINARDean Ho, Ph.D.
Research Associate
Departments of Bioengineering and Electrical Engineering
California Institute of Technology and
Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Department
University of California, Los AngelesABSTRACTThe concept of biotic-abiotic interfacing has enabled the assembly of structures that integrate synthetic and biological components towards functional micro/nano engineering systems. This talk will highlight our recent applications of biomolecule-functionalized thin films as a platform for converting light energy into electrical energy, as well as a platform of modifying cell patterning through cellular mechano-sensors. These thin films possess the advantages of configurable characteristics based upon desired functionality. In order to develop the films as the platform for the nano/micro energy system and cell-film interaction study, we need to be able to understand and control its material and chemical properties. For example, block lengths, compositions, and stiffness properties can be altered, and UV-reactive endgroups can be added to undergo free-radical polymerization to increase membrane mechanical stability which can in turn enhance protein stability and resistance to a wide range of environments (pH, temp., etc.). We have recently demonstrated the use of composite thin film vesicles functionalized with embedded membrane proteins (BR/COX) to generate light-dependent currents with no applied voltage. Our configuration has enabled each vesicle to serve as a dedicated energy producing unit which serves as an optimized failure management system. In addition, characterization of the mechanical properties of these biofunctional thin films has revealed their dramatic increase in robustness over conventional lipid systems towards the development of devices driven by inherent biomolecular activity. Furthermore, this talk will highlight a myriad of achievements in vectorial orientation of proteins in polymers for device engineering purposes. In addition, integrating the membrane with cell matrix proteins such as collagen serves as a powerful modality for studying cell patterning process. The cellular mechano-sensors can detect the relative Young's modulus variation of the film which can then induce the formation of various patterns and architectures. The understanding and control of these mechano-sensing and cell system responses to the received signal will provide us with a powerful pathway towards tissue engineering through next generation devices engineered at the biotic-abiotic interface.

Location: Hedco Pertroleum and Chemical Engineering Building (HED) - 116

Audiences: The Scientific Community is Cordially Invited

Contact: Petra Pearce