Protein Assembly

Protein Fibrillogenesis.  We are interested in identifying the molecular mechanisms that underlie tissue genesis, where we focus specifically on the contributions of two proteins, collagen and fibronectin, in nascent matrix formation. Using a systematic approach that employs spectrophotometry, spectroscopy, and mechanics, we study the events which precede fibrillogenesis (e.g., conformational unfolding, accelerated nucleation, and increased co-localization in situ) that can occur without the need for direct cellular control. Based on our findings, we design and iterate manufacturing tools that can be used to induce protein fibrillogenesis on the bench top. Photo credits: Jeff Paten, Cassandra Martin