Research
graphic by Ella Maru Studio
Biochemistry of nanoparticles
With a foundation in the biochemistry of nanoparticles, we aim to inform scientists and engineers on methods to best design nanoparticles for human health applications, including drugs and bio-sensors. In addition, our work can be used toward better predictions of the transport, fate, and impact of natural and engineered nanomaterials in the environment. In this way, we hope to inform more effective and sustainable design of nanomaterials.
Approach
We develop new approaches to characterize biomolecule-nanoparticle interactions and resulting changes to either the biomolecule or particle. Using an array of techniques, we span the spectrum from atomic to cellular level insights.
We study proteins adsorbed to the surface of nanoparticles, often known as the protein corona of the particle. Our work spans varying levels of complexity, from a simplified corona with few proteins, to coronas formed in the presence of living organisms. Graphic made in BioRender and published here. Check out the paper to learn more!
Student projects include, for example:
new tools to predict the population of proteins that bind to nanoparticles (the protein corona)
elucidation of nanoparticle effects on protein structure and function
evaluation of protein induced particle alterations, including particle agglomeration and dissolution.
assess the role of proteins in particle interactions with cells or organisms
Research community
We are affiliated with the NSF Center for Sustainable Nanotechnology.
We are members of the Primarily Undergraduate Nanomaterials Cooperative (PUNC).
By working with researchers from the broader scientific community, our team gains access to new tools and ideas, and new opportunities for networking and mentorship.
Funding
"Toward prediction of nanoparticle biomolecular interactions and reactivity,” Henry Dreyfus Award, 2018-2023, $60,000.
"Peptide probes of nanomaterial protein corona dynamics and biological response,” National Institutes of Health (AREA grant: R15ES025929), 2016-2021, $374,000.
"Sustainable nanoMAterials undergraduate Laboratory (SMAL),” sub-award from the National Science Foundation’s grant to University of California Center for the Environmental Implications of Nanotechnology, 2014-2016, $22,716.
“Characterization of the interactions between azurin and silver nanoparticles,” Research Corporation for Science Advancement Cottrell College Science Award, 2011-2013, $35,000.
"Advanced Biosciences Initiative,” Keck Foundation, a multi-P.I. grant, 2011-2013.
additional support over the years has come from the UCSC MACS Facility, the SJSU PROTEIN Lab, and Santa Clara University.
