Thesis subject
BSc - Self assembly of block polypeptides triggered by DNA
We design and produce artificial proteins that mimic viral coat proteins. These could ultimately be used to deliver nucleic acids into cells, which has many applications in medical and biotechnology.
We have done some preliminary investigations on a block polypeptide that was produced previously using genetic engineering. It consists of a middle cationic silk self assembly block surrounded by neutral collagen blocks. As can be seen in the pictures below, the addition of DNA (which is negatively charged) triggers self assembly into virus-like structures.
The goal of this BSc project would be to study the effect of DNA lengths on the self assembly process. In this way we can find out whether the size of the complexes follows that of the DNA (proper templating, as in a virus), or that it is determined by characteristics of the polypeptide (imperfect templating, many DNA's in a single complex).
Experimental techniques:
Advanced experimental methods will be used, such as Atomic Force Microscopy, for direct visualization of DNA/protein molecules and Circular dichroism for following of protein folding upon self assembly.