Random number generation by a two-dimensional crystal of protein molecules.
We discuss 2D and binary self-assemblies of protein molecules using apo-ferritin and holo-ferritin, which have identical outer-shell structures but different inner structures. The assemblies do not show any phase separation but form 2D monomolecular-layer crystals. Statistical analyses showed a random molecular distribution in the crystal where the molar ratio was conserved as it was in the solution. This molecular pattern is readily prepared, but it is neither reproducible nor predictable and hence can be used as a nanometer-scale cryptographic device or an identification tag.
Flucto-Order Functions Asian Collaboration Team, RIKEN Advanced Science Institute, 2-1 Hirosawa, Wako, Saitama 351-0198, Japan. y.ikezoe@riken.jp
Yasuhiro
Y
Ikezoe
Song-Ju
SJ
Kim
Ichiro
I
Yamashita
Masahiko
M
Hara
D000465:Algorithms; D001052:Apoferritins / Q000737:chemistry*; D003198:Computer Simulation; D003460:Crystallization; D005293:Ferritins / Q000737:chemistry*; D008433:Mathematics; D008855:Microscopy, Electron, Scanning; D015233:Models, Statistical; D008962:Models, Theoretical; D009010:Monte Carlo Method; D011336:Probability; D011506:Proteins / Q000737:chemistry*; D013499:Surface Properties; D014867:Water
D011506:Proteins; D014867:Water; D005293:Ferritins; D001052:Apoferritins