Design of photo-switchable self-assembled monolayers for the study of protein-receptor interactions

Charlesworth, Scott (2012). Design of photo-switchable self-assembled monolayers for the study of protein-receptor interactions. University of Birmingham. Ph.D.

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Abstract

Nano-biotechnology combines recent advances in nanotechnology with biology. It is a relatively new discipline and full of promise. One such promise is the elucidation of complex bio-molecular reactions and interactions, the elucidation of which requires the development of reliable in-vitro models. Such models could be developed through the use of self-assembled monolayer’s (SAMs). Research into this competitive field has already started and there is currently a call to develop SAMs which present specific bio-molecules in a switchable fashion; switchable SAMs can have their surface properties switched between two states, i.e. they can be switched ‘on’ or ‘off’. Such switch-ability would help such models mimic the real time changes of the bodies’ bio-chemistry and is a vital development. This thesis addresses this current research need, through the employment of azobenzene based SAMs.

Currently the switch-ability (isomerisation) of numerous azobenzene SAMs has been shown to be hindered by a lack of inter-surfactant space. This hindrance to isomerisation is addressed in Chapter 4. While Chapter 5 explores the design of an azobenzene based photo-switchable SAM, for use as in-vitro model for the study of bio-molecular interactions. The two chapters are not directly related and future work would aim to bring the findings together.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Doctorates > Ph.D.)

Award Type:

Doctorates > Ph.D.

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