Surface- and Solution-Based Assembly of Amyloid Fibrils for Biomedical and Nanotechnology Applications

Abstract

The self-assembly of amyloid fibrils offers a promising route for the production of robust nano-structures. This review explores mechanisms that can be used to control fibril growth including: the use of liquid-solid interfaces to promote fibril nucleation and elongation; and the use of solid surfaces to direct and orientate fibril growth. Methods for fibril deposition, covalent attachment, alignment and patterning on solid surfaces are discussed. Opportunities are then explored for the application of amyloid fibrils and other protein fibers in electronics, photonics, biosensing, enzyme immobilization and biocompatible materials. © 2009 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.