Available Technologies

Background

Recently, it has become possible to design artificial protein assemblies as complex as those found in nature, but many of them are formed from a single type of protein. Also, it is still a challenge to alter a structure of the protein complex once it has been formed.

Description and Advantages

Kyoto University researchers have created protein modules by fusing peptides as connecting parts to various shaped proteins that serve as base parts (Fig.1). When these modules are combined, they self-assemble to form structures (Fig. 1 and 2). Since the interactions of the connecting parts are reversible, it is possible to dissociate and reassemble them (Fig.3).

• Suitable for freely creating various structures both in 2D and 3D

• Elastic, extensible and flexible protein structures

Such protein structures may be utilized as functional biomaterials and bio-nanodevices.

• Reversibility potentially contributes for use as cages for drug delivery