Supramolecular Protein Nanotubes with Optical Tunable Properties

Area of Science:

• Supramolecular chemistry
• Biomaterials science
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Natural microtubules exhibit dynamic functions regulated by biochemical signals.
• Developing artificial intelligent supramolecular assemblies that mimic these dynamic behaviors is a significant scientific challenge.
• Controlling the assembly and properties of protein-based nanostructures is crucial for advanced applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design and synthesize a novel spiropyran-based inducing ligand for assembling protein nanotubes.
• To investigate the light-induced control over the assembly dynamics and nanomechanical properties of these protein nanotubes.
• To demonstrate the controlled release of functional protein components from the assembled nanostructures.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis of a spiropyran-based inducing ligand.
• Assembly of soybean agglutinin (SBA) into nanotubes using the synthesized ligand.
• In situ tuning of nanotube growth dynamics and nanomechanical properties using light signals.
• Liquid-phase Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) for nanomechanical characterization.
• Analysis of protein release and morphology transition upon external stimuli.

Main Results:

• Successful assembly of soybean agglutinin (SBA) into protein nanotubes mediated by a spiropyran ligand.
• Light signal-induced tuning of nanotube growth dynamics, leading to statistically different average lengths.
• In situ modulation of nanomechanical properties of the protein tubes via light without compromising structural integrity.
• Demonstration of controlled release of SBA tetramers with a morphology transition from tube to sheet, preserving protein function.

Conclusions:

• Spiropyran-based protein tubes represent a promising platform for creating intelligent supramolecular assemblies.
• Light-responsive control over assembly, properties, and release offers new possibilities in biomaterials design.
• These findings pave the way for developing dynamic and functional nanomaterials for various applications.