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Start of funding 01.01.2011
Bio-Inspired Strategies in Wet Adhesion
Prof. Dr. Thomas Scheibel
University of Bayreuth
Chair of Biomaterials
Prof. Dr. Herbert Waite
University of California, Santa Barbara
Marine Science Institute
Mussel byssus is a unique anchorage system employed by marine mussels enabling them to settle among intertidal stones, pilings or harbor walls. This material is of high interest for material researchers due to fascinating mechanical properties such as self-healing polymers and wet adhesives among others. Marine organisms that attach themselves to solid surfaces in the sea have no time to dawdle. Their adhesion must be rapid, strong, and tough, or else they will be dislodged and dashed to pieces by the next incoming wave. Given that synthetic adhesives for wet polar surfaces are in short supply, there has been much interest in characterizing the adhesive chemistry practiced by marine creatures. We would like to elucidate this chemistry and employ the results for generating new bio-inspired wet adhesives.
Final report:
In order to produce novel protein-based biomaterials inspired by nature, it is essential to first characterize how the natural system in question functions. This involves not only chemical analysis and synthesis of key molecules but also the recombinant production of partial, analogous and complete constructs and finally, processing the proteins into materials. The aim of this project was to exchange knowledge and skills in the fields of biochemical analysis and recombinant production of mussel byssus proteins in order to evaluate possible areas of mutual interest for joint projects.
In Santa Barbara, the BaCaTaC-sponsored project improved strategies for recombinant production of byssal proteins that are difficult to express, yet essential for underwater adhesion. In return, decades-long experience with marine adhesion, in particular with the preparation and analysis of natural samples, could be passed on to the group from Germany. The travel expenses paid by BaCaTeC allowed the establishment of a solid basis for further cooperation.