The synthesis of active biomaterials through nanofabrication and sol -gel encapsulation of liposomes and membrane proteins

The following dissertation reveals the latest advancements in developing self-sustaining hybrid nano-systems. Three areas of research were initiated: (1) Dielectrophoretic (DEP) mediation of hybrid assembly, (2) Solar powered proton pumping films, and (3) Silica materials with biochemical output for integration with nano-devices.;The first topic of research was devoted to creating reliable hybridization platforms. This was achieved by implementing AC electric-field forces. One of the primary considerations in utilizing DEP is buffer conductivity. The initial medium used to preserve biomotor functionality was too conductive and AC field effects were significantly reduced. Subsequent testing with lower ionic strength indicated that the biomolecules were repelled from field intense regions. Hence, nano-electrode arrays were reconfigured to trap device components. Initial results showed promising potential but current lithographic limitations require new nanofabrication methodologies to obtain the desired electrode design.;The second research project was focused on creating solar powered biomaterials. Liposomes containing bR proton pumping proteins and pyranine fluorescent dye into phospholipid vesicles were encapsulated within a silica matrix. The characteristic 402/456 nm pyranine peaks blue shifted upon acidification by bR. The proteoliposomes were mixed in a 3:1 ratio with tetramethyl orthosilicate (TMOS) sol respectively to provide a solar powered thin proteogel films. Ultimately, the ability to prepare these proteogels enabled the establishment of a proton gradient, and therefore opportunities to use these materials for biologically based power generation.;The third research project involved engineering nanobiochemical reaction environments within a three-dimensional construct. The goal here was to recruit encapsulated enzymes to actively synthesize biochemical compounds. These compounds were subsequently collected and used as a fuel source for integrated nano-devices. Through actinic stimulation 533 nmol ATP was produced/mg ATPase after 1 hour of light incubation. The ATP that was produced could be utilized for a variety of integrated hybrid nano-devices including the rotation of Ni bars powered by the F1-ATPase biomotor. The resultant biomimetic system demonstrated that a robust, biofunctionalized glassy material could be synthesized to actively engage in biochemical reactions.