Bio-Inspired SOFT Materials Laboratory
BRIDGING MEMBRANE BIOPHYSICS AND INTERFACIAL CHEMISTRY TO UNDERSTAND AND EVALUATE PHYSICAL PARAMETERS OF MEMBRANE-ASSOCIATED CELLULAR EVENTS
BRIDGING MEMBRANE BIOPHYSICS AND INTERFACIAL CHEMISTRY TO UNDERSTAND AND EVALUATE PHYSICAL PARAMETERS OF MEMBRANE-ASSOCIATED CELLULAR EVENTS
We are interested in constructing artificial biomembrane assemblies on active materials/sensor interfaces to understand the dynamics of membrane-associated cellular events. We are particularly interested in the evaluation of kinetic parameters associated with membrane fusion, membrane-pathogen interactions, or ion channel activities, and how the kinetics parameters alter on changing membrane curvature, deformation, or compositions. These sensor-coupled biomembranes create an avenue of technology that can be used for biophysical studies, detection, and screening applications. We use a variety of analytical and spectroscopic tools and techniques to fabricate and characterize biomembrane assemblies on sensor interfaces. Our research is highly interdisciplinary and collaborative. We seek active collaborations across research institutes and industries.
Currently, our focus is on the following research areas:
Membrane Biophysics: Investigation of the physical principles governing membrane-associated biological processes and biomolecular interactions, including membrane fusion, ion-channel activities, and membrane-pathogen interaction.
Artificial Cells: Designing synthetic membrane structures that mimic the crucial features of cells to study and replicate biological functions within artificial cells, such as enzyme activity, catalysis, and molecular transport.
Biosensors: Fabrication of biosensors at the nanoscale coupled with membrane and photonic devices/materials for the detection of biomolecules, pathogens, toxins, or environmental pollutants.
Bioelectronics: Integration of biological molecules, and biomembranes with electronic devices at the nanoscale, for bio-sensing applications with high sensitivity and specificity.
Our goal is to advance the understanding of the interactions between light, nano/sensor materials, and biological systems, aiming to develop cutting-edge technologies for biosensing and screening applications.