(135a) Biocatalytic Nanocomposites That Selectively Target Uncontrolled Pathogens

We have taken cues from nature to design materials with unique structural and functional properties, along with new process technologies with the ability to produce a wide range of biomimetic structures. Specifically, we have focused on the generation of nanostructures that are functionalized with and in some cases constructed from biological molecules, complete with tailored selectivities and biocatalytic activities. These nanostructures have been exploited in the generation of biocatalytically functional polymeric films, coatings, and paints that kill bacteria, prevent biofilm formation, and reduce fouling by bioorganic molecules. In this talk I will highlight our recent efforts to exploit the interface of biology with materials science, enhancing enzyme function along the way. Both fundamental advances and applications will be discussed, the latter focused on enzyme-nanomaterial composites with a wide range of activities that endow surfaces with decontaminating properties that target selectively key pathogens in our societal infrastructure, including MRSA, Listeria, and bacillus spores. Such activity provides a safe and potentially broadly applicable route to eliminating toxic compounds and pathogenic microorganisms from common surfaces.