One-dimensional optoelectronic nanostructures derived from the aqueous self-assembly of pi-conjugated oligopeptides.
The aqueous self-assembly of oligopeptide-flanked pi-conjugated molecules into discrete one-dimensional nanostructures is described. Unique to these molecules is the fact that the pi-conjugated unit has been directly embedded within the peptide backbone by way of a synthetic amino acid with pi-functionality that is compatible with standard Fmoc-based peptide synthesis. The peptide-based molecular design enforces intimate pi-pi communication within the aggregate after charge-screening and self-assembly, making these nanostructures attractive for optical or electronic applications in biological environments. The synthesis and assembly are reported along with spectroscopic and morphological characterization of the new nanomaterials.
Diegelmann
Stephen R
SR
Department of Chemistry, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, USA.
Gorham
Justin M
JM
Tovar
John D
JD
D004581:Electronics; D018625:Microscopy, Atomic Force; D008958:Models, Molecular; D008968:Molecular Conformation; D049329:Nanostructures / Q000737:chemistry* / Q000648:ultrastructure; D009842:Oligopeptides / Q000737:chemistry*; D010316:Particle Size; D010777:Photochemistry; D017433:Protein Structure, Secondary; D014867:Water / Q000737:chemistry
D009842:Oligopeptides; D014867:Water