Increasing protein stability through control of the nanoscale environment.
We have discovered a novel property of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs)-their ability to stabilize proteins at elevated temperatures and in organic solvents to a greater extent than conventional flat supports. Experimental results and theoretical analysis reveal that the stabilization results from the curvature of SWNTs, which suppresses unfavorable protein-protein lateral interactions. Our results also indicate that the phenomenon is not unique to SWNTs but could be extended to other nanomaterials. The protein-nanotube conjugates represent a new generation of active and stable catalytic materials with potential use in biosensors, diagnostics, and bioactive films and other hybrid materials that integrate biotic and abiotic components.
Asuri
Prashanth
P
Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering and Rensselaer Nanotechnology Center, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, New York 12180, USA.
Karajanagi
Sandeep S
SS
Yang
Hoichang
H
Yim
Tae-Jin
TJ
Kane
Ravi S
RS
Dordick
Jonathan S
JS
D000327:Adsorption; D004355:Drug Stability; D004800:Enzymes, Immobilized / Q000737:chemistry / Q000378:metabolism; D006108:Graphite; D066298:In Vitro Techniques; D018625:Microscopy, Atomic Force; D008855:Microscopy, Electron, Scanning; D036103:Nanotechnology / Q000379:methods; D037742:Nanotubes, Carbon / Q000737:chemistry* / Q000648:ultrastructure; D011506:Proteins / Q000737:chemistry*; D013499:Surface Properties
D004800:Enzymes, Immobilized; D037742:Nanotubes, Carbon; D011506:Proteins; D006108:Graphite