(704d) Peptide-Assisted Synthesis and Functionalization of Nanomaterials

Biological building blocks are invaluable in offering exceptional control, chemical specificity, and self-assembling properties, while nanomaterials exhibit unique optical, electronic and catalytic properties. Combination of both bio- and nano-materials can result in the creation of hybrid materials that exhibit multifunctional properties. One of the key approaches has been to exploit the ability of biomolecules to synthesize, assemble and/or functionalize nanostructures. The highly specific molecular recognition and self-assembly properties of biomolecules, along with their design flexibility, make them attractive as building blocks for fabricating and assembling nanostructures.  Our research highlights the utility of biomolecules to control nucleation, growth and stabilization of nanoparticles, as well as in the assembly of nanomaterials. We have demonstrated the utility of biomolecules for synthesizing functionalization and assembly nanomaterials for catalytic, biosensing and other non-medical applications. In my talk I will highlight the use of peptide-enabled synthesis of nanomaterials for catalytic applications