title: S-layers as patterning elements for application in nanobiotechnology.
abstract: Two-dimensional bacterial cell surface layer protein crystals (S-layers) are the most commonly observed cell surface structure in bacteria and archaea. Isolated S-layer proteins have the intrinsic tendency to self-assemble into crystalline arrays in suspension and on various interfaces. Basic research on the structure, genetics, chemistry, morphogenesis and function of S-layers has led to a broad spectrum of applications in nanotechnology and biomimetics. The possibility to change the properties of S-layer proteins by genetic engineering opens new ways for tuning their functional and structural features. Functionalized S-layer proteins that maintain their ability to self-assemble have led to new affinity matrices, diagnostic tools, vaccines or biocompatible surfaces, as well as to biological templating or specific biomineralisation strategies at surfaces.
authors.affiliation: Center for NanoBiotechnology, University of Natural Resources and Applied Life Sciences, Vienna 1180, Austria.
authors.forename: Margit
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Sára
authors.forename: Dietmar
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Pum
authors.forename: Bernhard
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Schuster
authors.forename: Uwe B
authors.initials: UB
authors.lastname: Sleytr
mesh_terms: D001426:Bacterial Proteins / Q000737:chemistry; D001704:Biopolymers / Q000737:chemistry; D001709:Biotechnology; D002473:Cell Wall / Q000737:chemistry; D003460:Crystallization; D008055:Lipids / Q000737:chemistry; D008565:Membrane Proteins / Q000737:chemistry; D018625:Microscopy, Atomic Force; D046529:Microscopy, Electron, Transmission; D018716:Molecular Mimicry; D015394:Molecular Structure; D036103:Nanotechnology
chemical_list: D001426:Bacterial Proteins; D001704:Biopolymers; D008055:Lipids; D008565:Membrane Proteins