Cross Bridging Proteins in Nature and their Utilization in Bio- and Nanotechnology

Title: Cross Bridging Proteins in Nature and their Utilization in Bio- and Nanotechnology

Volume: 5 Issue: 1

Author(s): Ilan Levy and Oded Shoseyov

Affiliation:

Keywords: Cross bridging, biotechnology, nanotechnology, self-assembly, scaffold

Abstract: Cross-linking and cross-bridging are highly versatile methods of creating composite protein structures with desired mechanical properties such as deformation endurance, elasticity, extensibility, and stability under intensive and repetitive sheering forces. Cross-linking and crossbridging are distinguished by the bonds that hold the structural components together. Cross-linking implies a covalent association, whereas cross-bridging depends on biological recognition, in which hydrogen bonding, ionic, and hydrophobic interactions predominate. Cross-bridged structures are found in all living systems. Cytoskeletal interaction, cell invasion by pathogens, fertilization, and cellulosomal degradation of cellulose are all examples of biological processes in which cross-bridging proteins play a key role. This article will review the different types of biological cross-bridging proteins that are known and discuss their emerging nano- and biotechnological applications.

Cite this article as:

Levy Ilan and Shoseyov Oded, Cross Bridging Proteins in Nature and their Utilization in Bio- and Nanotechnology, Current Protein & Peptide Science 2004; 5 (1) . https://dx.doi.org/10.2174/1389203043486919