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Updated: Mar 1, 2026

Formation of Ordered Biomolecular Structures by the Self-assembly of Short Peptides
Published on: November 21, 2013
Secondary-Structure-Driven Self-Assembly of Reactive Polypept(o)ides: Controlling Size, Shape, and Function of Core
Kristina Klinker1,2, Olga Schäfer1, David Huesmann1
1Institut für Organische Chemie, Johannes Gutenberg-Universität Mainz, Duesbergweg 10-14, 55128, Mainz, Germany.
Abstract:
Achieving precise control over the morphology and function of polymeric nanostructures during self-assembly remains a challenge in materials as well as biomedical science, especially when independent control over particle properties is desired. Herein, we report on nanostructures derived from amphiphilic block copolypept(o)ides by secondary-structure-directed self-assembly, presenting a strategy to adjust core polarity and function separately from particle preparation in a bioreversible manner. The peptide-inherent process of secondary-structure formation allows for the synthesis of spherical and worm-like core-cross-linked architectures from the same block copolymer, introducing a simple yet powerful approach to versatile peptide-based core-shell nanostructures.
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