www.nanopicoftheday.org
March 23, 2004
Mussel Glue
Source:
Phillip B. Messersmith
References:
- J.L. Dalsin, B. Hu, B.P.
Lee, and P.B. Messersmith, "Mussel Adhesive Protein Mimetic Polymers for the
Preparation of Nonfouling Surfaces", Journal of the American Chemical
Society, 125, 4253-4258 (2003).
Description:
"Bio-inspired" mimics of mussel adhesive (yes, the little clam-like animal)
create "nonfouling" surfaces, which are resistant to protein and cellular
growth. The left of this image is untreated and shows contamination.
Mussel adhesive proteins (MAPs) form a type of underwater glue that tethers
marine organisms to their substrates. Secreted as fluids, MAPs undergo a
crosslinking or hardening reaction to form a solid adhesive plaque. MAP plaques
cure in situ to form tenacious, water-resistant bonds.
This research is expected to have significant impact for adhesive biomaterials
for tissue adhesives and drug delivery in the field of nanoparticle-based
therapeutics, imaging agents, medical devices, and biosensors.
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