Protein Adsorption Tuned by Multivalent Ions (PATMI): Connecting Bulk to Interface Behaviour by Controlling Interactions

• Applicant: Professor Dr. Frank Schreiber
• Subject Area: Statistical Physics, Nonlinear Dynamics, Complex Systems, Soft and Fluid Matter, Biological Physics ; Experimental Condensed Matter Physics
• Term: since 2020
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 431858909

This proposal aims to employ the rich bulk phase behaviour of protein solutions including re-entrant condensation mediated by multivalent ions to elucidate the fundamentals of protein adsorption at interfaces beyond simple charge screening.This qualitatively new behaviour will be explored both at equilibrium (i.e. adsorption isotherms will be determined along with the equilibrium structures) and dynamically (and therefore prior to equilibrium, i.e. the adsorption kinetics will be investigated), with particular attention to clarify the role of surface-induced nucleation and its importance for protein crystallisation.We aim to connect the interface behaviour to the interactions controlled by multivalent ions and the bulk behaviour within the concept of ion-activated patches.We make use of our expertise in surface analysis techniques, such as ellipsometry, QCM-D, FTIRRAS/ATR and in particular neutron and X-ray scattering, which allow a detailed determination of the adsorbed layer structure at the molecular level.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants