Project Details
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Adsorption of binding peptides on ZnO - towards a quantitative understanding of organic-inorganic interactions

Subject Area Physical Chemistry of Solids and Surfaces, Material Characterisation
Synthesis and Properties of Functional Materials
Term from 2017 to 2021
Project identifier Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 396924328
 
Final Report Year 2023

Final Report Abstract

This project has delved into the intricate relationship between inorganic surfaces and bio-organic peptides, with a specific focus on the binding mechanisms between peptides and zinc oxide (ZnO). Our combined experimental and theoretical approach has yielded valuable insights and outcomes that have far-reaching implications for both the scientific and technological communities. Peptides binding to metal oxides, such as zinc oxide, can be harnessed for a wide range of applications, which include functionalizing inorganic surfaces, ensuring biocompatibility for implants, facilitating the bioinspired synthesis of materials, and serving as mediators for biocomponents on surfaces. A deep understanding of the specific and general binding mechanisms is critical for the purposeful design of peptides for these applications. We selected peptides that demonstrate a binding affinity for single-crystalline non-polar (10- 10)ZnO surfaces using phage display. The research extended beyond mere peptide identification, focusing on investigating the specificity and selectivity of these binding peptides. We compared the behavior of these peptides with their counterparts on related and distinct surfaces. This comparative analysis allowed us to discern subtle differences and commonalities in the binding patterns. In order to facilitate the integration of our findings within the broader scientific context, we conducted a comprehensive theoretical and experimental characterization of the binding peptides and mechanisms. Sophisticated modeling of solvent-induced peptide conformations and substrate surface properties were performed and verified through experimental techniques. We employed a manifold of theoretical, optical, spectroscopic, and biological methods to elucidate the molecular-level interactions between peptides and ZnO. It is noteworthy that the experimental data and simulation data exhibited remarkable agreement, enabling a profound understanding of the binding mechanisms. Our evaluation of binding peptides is both qualitative and quantitative, providing a solid foundation for future research and applications. These findings have opened the door to a more rationalized understanding of peptide-inorganic interactions, and they offer promising prospects for commercialization opportunities. The successful completion of this project marks a significant step towards harnessing these interactions for scientific and practical purposes.

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