Fundamentals and Applications of Nanomaterial-Biomolecule Interactions

Recent research has illustrated the significant influence of nanomaterials on the structure and function of a variety of biomolecules and biological species. These interactions impact applications ranging from biotransformations and diagnostics to drug delivery, disease therapy and development of novel biomaterial nanocomposites. However, many challenges remain before the potential of nanomaterials can be fully realized, including understanding and controlling the nanomaterial-biomolecule interface. This talk will focus on our work developing a fundamental understanding on how nanomaterials affect the fate and function of proteins, biopolymers, and cells. Topics will include enzyme stability on carbon nanotubes, development of efficient viral nanoparticles that infect human stem cells, effect of silica nanoparticles on biomaterial stiffness, and role of particle size on cellular nanotoxicity.