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Liu J, Song J, Zeng L, Hu B. An Overview on the Adhesion Mechanisms of Typical Aquatic Organisms and the Applications of Biomimetic Adhesives in Aquatic Environments. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:7994. [PMID: 39063236 PMCID: PMC11277488 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25147994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2024] [Revised: 07/11/2024] [Accepted: 07/19/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Water molecules pose a significant obstacle to conventional adhesive materials. Nevertheless, some marine organisms can secrete bioadhesives with remarkable adhesion properties. For instance, mussels resist sea waves using byssal threads, sandcastle worms secrete sandcastle glue to construct shelters, and barnacles adhere to various surfaces using their barnacle cement. This work initially elucidates the process of underwater adhesion and the microstructure of bioadhesives in these three exemplary marine organisms. The formation of bioadhesive microstructures is intimately related to the aquatic environment. Subsequently, the adhesion mechanisms employed by mussel byssal threads, sandcastle glue, and barnacle cement are demonstrated at the molecular level. The comprehension of adhesion mechanisms has promoted various biomimetic adhesive systems: DOPA-based biomimetic adhesives inspired by the chemical composition of mussel byssal proteins; polyelectrolyte hydrogels enlightened by sandcastle glue and phase transitions; and novel biomimetic adhesives derived from the multiple interactions and nanofiber-like structures within barnacle cement. Underwater biomimetic adhesion continues to encounter multifaceted challenges despite notable advancements. Hence, this work examines the current challenges confronting underwater biomimetic adhesion in the last part, which provides novel perspectives and directions for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Junyi Song
- College of Science, National University of Defense Technology, Changsha 410073, China
| | | | - Biru Hu
- College of Science, National University of Defense Technology, Changsha 410073, China
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2
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Li X, Li S, Cheng J, Zhang Y, Zhan A. Deciphering protein-mediated underwater adhesion in an invasive biofouling ascidian: Discovery, validation, and functional mechanism of an interfacial protein. Acta Biomater 2024; 181:146-160. [PMID: 38679406 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2024.04.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2023] [Revised: 04/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
Discovering macromolecules and understanding the associated mechanisms involved in underwater adhesion are essential for both studying the fundamental ecology of benthos in aquatic ecosystems and developing biomimetic adhesive materials in industries. Here, we employed quantitative proteomics to assess protein expression variations during the development of the distinct adhesive structure - stolon in the model fouling ascidian, Ciona robusta. We found 16 adhesive protein candidates with increased expression in the stolon, with ascidian adhesive protein 1 (AAP1) being particularly rich in adhesion-related signal peptides, amino acids, and functional domains. Western blot and immunolocalization analyses confirmed the prominent AAP1 signals in the mantle, tunic, stolon, and adhesive footprints, indicating the interfacial role of this protein. Surface coating and atomic force microscopy experiments verified AAP1's adhesion to diverse materials, likely through the specific electrostatic and hydrophobic amino acid interactions with various substrates. In addition, molecular docking calculations indicated the AAP1's potential for cross-linking via hydrogen bonds and salt bridges among Von Willebrand factor type A domains, enhancing its adhesion capability. Altogether, the newly discovered interfacial protein responsible for permanent underwater adhesion, along with the elucidated adhesion mechanisms, are expected to contribute to the development of biomimetic adhesive materials and anti-fouling strategies. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Discovering macromolecules and studying their associated mechanisms involved in underwater adhesion are essential for understanding the fundamental ecology of benthos in aquatic ecosystems and developing innovative bionic adhesive materials in various industries. Using multidisciplinary analytical methods, we identified an interfacial protein - Ascidian Adhesive Protein 1 (AAP1) from the model marine fouling ascidian, Ciona robusta. The interfacial functions of AAP1 are achieved by electrostatic and hydrophobic interactions, and the Von Willebrand factor type A domain-based cross-linking likely enhances AAP1's interfacial adhesion. The identification and validation of the interfacial functions of AAP1, combined with the elucidation of adhesion mechanisms, present a promising target for the development of biomimetic adhesive materials and the formulation of effective anti-fouling strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi Li
- Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 18 Shuangqing Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100085, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 19A Yuquan Road, Shijingshan District, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Shiguo Li
- Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 18 Shuangqing Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100085, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 19A Yuquan Road, Shijingshan District, Beijing 100049, China.
| | - Jiawei Cheng
- Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 18 Shuangqing Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100085, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 19A Yuquan Road, Shijingshan District, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Ying Zhang
- Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 18 Shuangqing Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100085, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 19A Yuquan Road, Shijingshan District, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Aibin Zhan
- Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 18 Shuangqing Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100085, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 19A Yuquan Road, Shijingshan District, Beijing 100049, China.
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3
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Ye L, Liu X, Li K, Li X, Zhu J, Yang S, Xu L, Yang M, Yan Y, Yan J. A bioinspired synthetic fused protein adhesive from barnacle cement and spider dragline for potential biomedical materials. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 253:127125. [PMID: 37776922 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.127125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Revised: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/02/2023]
Abstract
Biomaterials with excellent biocompatibility, mechanical performance, and self-recovery properties are urgently needed for tissue regeneration. Inspired by barnacle cement and spider silk, we genetically designed and overexpressed a fused protein (cp19k-MaSp1) composed of Megabalanus rosa (cp19k) and Nephila clavata dragline silk protein (MaSp1) in Pichia pastoris. The recombinant cp19k-MaSp1 exhibited enhanced adhesion capability beyond those of the individual proteins in both aqueous and non-aqueous conditions. cp19k-MaSp1 protein fiber scaffolds prepared through electrospinning have adequate hydrophilicity compared to cp19k and MaSp1 protein fiber scaffolds, and offer improved overall porosity compared to MaSp1 protein fiber scaffolds. The cp19k-MaSp1 protein fiber scaffolds showed excellent proteolytically stable properties because of only 9.6 % depletion after incubation in a biodegradation solution for 56 d. The cp19k-MaSp1 protein fiber scaffolds present remarkably high extreme tensile strength (112.7 ± 11.6 MPa) and superior ductility (438.4 ± 43.9 %) compared with cp19k (34.4 ± 8.1 MPa, 115.4 ± 32.7 %) and MaSp1 protein fiber scaffolds (65.8 ± 9.3 MPa, 409.6 ± 23.1 %), also 68.4 % of tensile strength was recovered by incubation in K+ buffer after multiple stretches, which create a favorable cell adhesion, growth, and proliferation environment for human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). The improved biocompatibility, extensive adhesion, mechanical strength, and self-recovery properties make the bioinspired synthetic cp19k-MaSp1 a potential candidate for biomedical tissue reconstruction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luona Ye
- Key Lab of Molecular Biophysics of Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiaoxiao Liu
- Key Lab of Molecular Biophysics of Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Kai Li
- Key Lab of Molecular Biophysics of Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiaoyan Li
- Key Lab of Molecular Biophysics of Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jiarui Zhu
- Key Lab of Molecular Biophysics of Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Shu Yang
- Key Lab of Molecular Biophysics of Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Li Xu
- Key Lab of Molecular Biophysics of Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Min Yang
- Key Lab of Molecular Biophysics of Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yunjun Yan
- Key Lab of Molecular Biophysics of Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
| | - Jinyong Yan
- Key Lab of Molecular Biophysics of Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
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McCarthy SD, Tilbury MA, Masterson CH, MacLoughlin R, González HE, Laffey JG, Wall JG, O'Toole D. Aerosol Delivery of a Novel Recombinant Modified Superoxide Dismutase Protein Reduces Oxidant Injury and Attenuates Escherichia coli Induced Lung Injury in Rats. J Aerosol Med Pulm Drug Deliv 2023; 36:246-256. [PMID: 37638822 DOI: 10.1089/jamp.2022.0069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a life-threatening respiratory failure syndrome with diverse etiologies characterized by increased permeability of alveolar-capillary membranes, pulmonary edema, and acute onset hypoxemia. During the ARDS acute phase, neutrophil infiltration into the alveolar space results in uncontrolled release of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and proteases, overwhelming antioxidant defenses and causing alveolar epithelial and lung endothelial injury. Objectives: To investigate the therapeutic potential of a novel recombinant human Cu-Zn-superoxide dismutase (SOD) fusion protein in protecting against ROS injury and for aerosolized SOD delivery to treat Escherichia coli induced ARDS. Methods: Fusion proteins incorporating human Cu-Zn-SOD (hSOD1), with (pep1-hSOD1-his) and without (hSOD1-his) a fused hyaluronic acid-binding peptide, were expressed in E. coli. Purified proteins were evaluated in in vitro assays with human bronchial epithelial cells and through aerosolized delivery to the lung of an E. coli-induced ARDS rat model. Results: SOD proteins exhibited high SOD activity in vitro and protected bronchial epithelial cells from oxidative damage. hSOD1-his and pep1-hSOD1-his retained SOD activity postnebulization and exhibited no adverse effects in the rat. Pep1-hSOD1-his administered through instillation or nebulization to the lung of an E. coli-induced pneumonia rat improved arterial oxygenation and lactate levels compared to vehicle after 48 hours. Static lung compliance was improved when the pep1-hSOD1-his protein was delivered by instillation. White cell infiltration to the lung was significantly reduced by aerosolized delivery of protein, and reduction of cytokine-induced neutrophil chemoattractant-1, interferon-gamma, and interleukin 6 pro-inflammatory cytokine concentrations in bronchoalveolar lavage was observed. Conclusions: Aerosol delivery of a novel recombinant modified SOD protein reduces oxidant injury and attenuates E. coli induced lung injury in rats. The results provide a strong basis for further investigation of the therapeutic potential of hSOD1 in the treatment of ARDS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean D McCarthy
- SFI Centre for Medical Devices (CÚRAM), University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
- Regenerative Medicine Institute (REMEDI), University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
- Discipline of Anaesthesia, School of Medicine, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - Maura A Tilbury
- SFI Centre for Medical Devices (CÚRAM), University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
- Microbiology, School of Biological and Chemical Sciences, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - Claire H Masterson
- SFI Centre for Medical Devices (CÚRAM), University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
- Regenerative Medicine Institute (REMEDI), University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
- Microbiology, School of Biological and Chemical Sciences, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | | | - Héctor E González
- SFI Centre for Medical Devices (CÚRAM), University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
- Regenerative Medicine Institute (REMEDI), University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
- Discipline of Anaesthesia, School of Medicine, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - John G Laffey
- SFI Centre for Medical Devices (CÚRAM), University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
- Regenerative Medicine Institute (REMEDI), University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
- Discipline of Anaesthesia, School of Medicine, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - J Gerard Wall
- SFI Centre for Medical Devices (CÚRAM), University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
- Microbiology, School of Biological and Chemical Sciences, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - Daniel O'Toole
- SFI Centre for Medical Devices (CÚRAM), University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
- Regenerative Medicine Institute (REMEDI), University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
- Discipline of Anaesthesia, School of Medicine, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
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Tilbury MA, Tran TQ, Shingare D, Lefevre M, Power AM, Leclère P, Wall JG. Self-assembly of a barnacle cement protein into intertwined amyloid fibres and determination of their adhesive and viscoelastic properties. J R Soc Interface 2023; 20:20230332. [PMID: 37553991 PMCID: PMC10410215 DOI: 10.1098/rsif.2023.0332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The stalked barnacle Pollicipes pollicipes uses a multi-protein cement to adhere to highly varied substrates in marine environments. We investigated the morphology and adhesiveness of a component 19 kDa protein in barnacle cement gland- and seawater-like conditions, using transmission electron microscopy and state-of-the art scanning probe techniques. The protein formed amyloid fibres after 5 days in gland-like but not seawater conditions. After 7-11 days, the fibres self-assembled under gland-like conditions into large intertwined fibrils of up to 10 µm in length and 200 nm in height, with a distinctive twisting of fibrils evident after 11 days. Atomic force microscopy (AFM)-nanodynamic mechanical analysis of the protein in wet conditions determined E' (elasticity), E'' (viscosity) and tan δ values of 2.8 MPa, 1.2 MPa and 0.37, respectively, indicating that the protein is a soft and viscoelastic material, while the adhesiveness of the unassembled protein and assembled fibres, measured using peak force quantitative nanomechanical mapping, was comparable to that of the commercial adhesive Cell-Tak™. The study provides a comprehensive insight into the nanomechanical and viscoelastic properties of the barnacle cement protein and its self-assembled fibres under native-like conditions and may have application in the design of amyloid fibril-based biomaterials or bioadhesives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maura A. Tilbury
- Microbiology, School of Biological and Chemical Sciences, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
- SFI Centre for Medical Devices (CÚRAM), University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - Thi Quynh Tran
- Laboratory for Physics of Nanomaterials and Energy, Research Institute for Materials, University of Mons, 7000 Mons, Belgium
| | - Dilip Shingare
- Microbiology, School of Biological and Chemical Sciences, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
- SFI Centre for Medical Devices (CÚRAM), University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - Mathilde Lefevre
- Laboratory for Physics of Nanomaterials and Energy, Research Institute for Materials, University of Mons, 7000 Mons, Belgium
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Research Institute for Biosciences, University of Mons, Place du Parc 23, 7000 Mons, Belgium
| | - Anne Marie Power
- Ryan Institute, School of Natural Sciences, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - Philippe Leclère
- Laboratory for Physics of Nanomaterials and Energy, Research Institute for Materials, University of Mons, 7000 Mons, Belgium
| | - J. Gerard Wall
- Microbiology, School of Biological and Chemical Sciences, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
- SFI Centre for Medical Devices (CÚRAM), University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
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6
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Melrose J. High Performance Marine and Terrestrial Bioadhesives and the Biomedical Applications They Have Inspired. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27248982. [PMID: 36558114 PMCID: PMC9783952 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27248982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2022] [Revised: 12/10/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
This study has reviewed the naturally occurring bioadhesives produced in marine and freshwater aqueous environments and in the mucinous exudates of some terrestrial animals which have remarkable properties providing adhesion under difficult environmental conditions. These bioadhesives have inspired the development of medical bioadhesives with impressive properties that provide an effective alternative to suturing surgical wounds improving closure and healing of wounds in technically demanding tissues such as the heart, lung and soft tissues like the brain and intestinal mucosa. The Gecko has developed a dry-adhesive system of exceptional performance and has inspired the development of new generation re-usable tapes applicable to many medical procedures. The silk of spider webs has been equally inspiring to structural engineers and materials scientists and has revealed innovative properties which have led to new generation technologies in photonics, phononics and micro-electronics in the development of wearable biosensors. Man made products designed to emulate the performance of these natural bioadhesive molecules are improving wound closure and healing of problematic lesions such as diabetic foot ulcers which are notoriously painful and have also found application in many other areas in biomedicine. Armed with information on the mechanistic properties of these impressive biomolecules major advances are expected in biomedicine, micro-electronics, photonics, materials science, artificial intelligence and robotics technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Melrose
- Raymond Purves Bone and Joint Research Laboratory, Kolling Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney at Royal North Shore Hospital, Northern Sydney Local Health District, St. Leonards, NSW 2065, Australia;
- Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
- Sydney Medical School, Northern Campus, The University of Sydney, St. Leonards, NSW 2065, Australia
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7
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Li B, Song J, Mao T, Zeng L, Ye Z, Hu B. An essential role of disulfide bonds for the hierarchical self-assembly and underwater affinity of CP20-derived peptides. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:998194. [DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.998194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Barnacles are typical fouling organisms strongly adhere to immersed solid substrates by secreting proteinaceous adhesives called cement proteins (CPs). The self-assembly of the CPs forms a permanently bonded layer that binds barnacles to foreign surfaces. However, it is difficult to determine their natural structure and describe their self-assembly properties due to the abundance of cysteines in whole-length CP20. A putative functional motif of Balanus albicostatus CP20 (BalCP20) was identified to present distinctive self-assembly and wet-binding characteristics. Atomic-force microscopy (AFM) and transmission electron microscope (TEM) investigations showed that wildtype BalCP20-P3 formed grain-like spindles, which assembled into fractal-like structures like ears of wheat. SDS-PAGE, AFM, and LSCM showed that DTT treatment opened up disulfide bonds between cysteines and disrupted fractal-like structures. Additionally, these morphologies were abolished when one of the BalCP20-P3 four cysteines was mutated by alanine. Circular dichroism (CD) results suggested that the morphological diversity among BalCP20-P3 and its mutations was related to the proportion of α-helices. Finally, quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation (QCM-D) detected that BalCP20-P3 and its mutations with diverse self-assemblies occupied different affinities. The above results demonstrated that cysteines and disulfide bonds played a crucial role in the self-assembly and wet binding of BalCP20-P3. The work provides new ideas for the underwater bonding of BalCP20 and developing new bionic underwater adhesives.
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8
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Xu Z, Liu Z, Zhang C, Xu D. Advance in barnacle cement with high underwater adhesion. J Appl Polym Sci 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/app.52894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Zhenzhen Xu
- Beijing Institute of Basic Medical Sciences Beijing China
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences Hebei University Baoding China
| | - Zhongcheng Liu
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences Hebei University Baoding China
| | - Chao Zhang
- Beijing Institute of Basic Medical Sciences Beijing China
| | - Donggang Xu
- Beijing Institute of Basic Medical Sciences Beijing China
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9
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Liang C, Bi X, Gan K, Wu J, He G, Xue B, Ye Z, Cao Y, Hu B. Short Peptides Derived from a Block Copolymer-like Barnacle Cement Protein Self-Assembled into Diverse Supramolecular Structures. Biomacromolecules 2022; 23:2019-2030. [PMID: 35482604 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.2c00031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Peptides capable of self-assembling into different supramolecular structures have potential applications in a variety of areas. The biomimetic molecular design offers an important avenue to discover novel self-assembling peptides. Despite this, a lot of biomimetic self-assembling peptides have been reported so far; to continually expand the scope of peptide self-assembly, it is necessary to find out more novel self-assembling peptides. Barnacle cp19k, a key underwater adhesive protein, shows special block copolymer-like characteristics and diversified self-assembly properties, providing an ideal template for biomimetic peptide design. In this study, inspired by Balanus albicostatus cp19k (Balcp19k), we rationally designed nine biomimetic peptides (P1-P9) and systematically studied their self-assembly behaviors for the first time. Combining microscale morphology observations and secondary structure analyses, we found that multiple biomimetic peptides derived from the central region and the C-terminus of Balcp19k form distinct supramolecular structures via different self-assembly mechanisms under acidic conditions. Specifically, P9 self-assembles into typical amyloid fibers. P7, which resembles ionic self-complementary peptides by containing nonstrictly alternating hydrophobic and charged amino acids, self-assembles into uniform, discrete nanofibers. P6 with amphipathic features forms twisted nanoribbons. Most interestingly, P4 self-assembles to form helical nanofibers and novel ring-shaped microstructures, showing unique self-assembly behaviors. Apart from their self-assembly properties, these peptides showed good cytocompatibility and demonstrated promising applications in biomedical areas. Our results expanded the repertoire of self-assembling peptides and provided new insights into the structure-function relationship of barnacle cp19k.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Liang
- College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, National University of Defense Technology, Changsha 410073, China
| | - Xiangyun Bi
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
| | - Kesheng Gan
- College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, National University of Defense Technology, Changsha 410073, China
| | - Jizhe Wu
- College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, National University of Defense Technology, Changsha 410073, China
| | - Guangxiao He
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Advanced Microstructures, National Laboratory of Solid State Microstructure, Department of Physics, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China
| | - Bin Xue
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Advanced Microstructures, National Laboratory of Solid State Microstructure, Department of Physics, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China
| | - Zonghuang Ye
- College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, National University of Defense Technology, Changsha 410073, China
| | - Yi Cao
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Advanced Microstructures, National Laboratory of Solid State Microstructure, Key Laboratory of Intelligent Optical Sensing and Manipulation, Ministry of Education, Department of Physics, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China.,Institute for Brain Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China.,Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China.,Wenzhou Institute, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wenzhou 325001, China
| | - Biru Hu
- College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, National University of Defense Technology, Changsha 410073, China
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10
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Gan K, Liang C, Bi X, Wu J, Ye Z, Wu W, Hu B. Adhesive Materials Inspired by Barnacle Underwater Adhesion: Biological Principles and Biomimetic Designs. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:870445. [PMID: 35573228 PMCID: PMC9097139 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.870445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Wet adhesion technology has potential applications in various fields, especially in the biomedical field, yet it has not been completely mastered by humans. Many aquatic organisms (e.g., mussels, sandcastle worms, and barnacles) have evolved into wet adhesion specialists with excellent underwater adhesion abilities, and mimicking their adhesion principles to engineer artificial adhesive materials offers an important avenue to address the wet adhesion issue. The crustacean barnacle secretes a proteinaceous adhesive called barnacle cement, with which they firmly attach their bodies to almost any substrate underwater. Owing to the unique chemical composition, structural property, and adhesion mechanism, barnacle cement has attracted widespread research interest as a novel model for designing biomimetic adhesive materials, with significant progress being made. To further boost the development of barnacle cement-inspired adhesive materials (BCIAMs), it is necessary to systematically summarize their design strategies and research advances. However, no relevant reviews have been published yet. In this context, we presented a systematic review for the first time. First, we introduced the underwater adhesion principles of natural barnacle cement, which lay the basis for the design of BCIAMs. Subsequently, we classified the BCIAMs into three major categories according to the different design strategies and summarized their research advances in great detail. Finally, we discussed the research challenge and future trends of this field. We believe that this review can not only improve our understanding of the molecular mechanism of barnacle underwater adhesion but also accelerate the development of barnacle-inspired wet adhesion technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kesheng Gan
- College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, National University of Defense Technology, Changsha, China
| | - Chao Liang
- College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, National University of Defense Technology, Changsha, China
| | - Xiangyun Bi
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jizhe Wu
- College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, National University of Defense Technology, Changsha, China
| | - Zonghuang Ye
- College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, National University of Defense Technology, Changsha, China
| | - Wenjian Wu
- College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, National University of Defense Technology, Changsha, China
| | - Biru Hu
- College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, National University of Defense Technology, Changsha, China
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11
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Yates EA, Estrella LA, So CR. High-Throughput Screening of Heterologous Functional Amyloids Using Escherichia coli. Methods Mol Biol 2022; 2538:131-144. [PMID: 35951298 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2529-3_10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Escherichia coli remains one of the most widely used workhorse microorganisms for the expression of heterologous proteins. The large number of cloning vectors and mutant host strains available for E. coli yields an impressively wide array of folded globular proteins in the laboratory. However, applying modern functional screening approaches to interrogate insoluble protein aggregates such as amyloids requires the use of nonstandard expression pathways. In this chapter, we detail the use of the curli export pathway in E. coli to express a library of gene fragments and variants of a functional amyloid protein to screen sequence traits responsible for aggregation and the formation of nanoscale materials.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Luis A Estrella
- Formerly Chemistry Division, US Naval Research Laboratory, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Christopher R So
- Chemistry Division, US Naval Research Laboratory, Washington, DC, USA.
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12
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Lefevre M, Ederth T, Masai T, Wattiez R, Leclère P, Flammang P, Hennebert E. Disentangling the Roles of Functional Domains in the Aggregation and Adsorption of the Multimodular Sea Star Adhesive Protein Sfp1. MARINE BIOTECHNOLOGY (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2021; 23:724-735. [PMID: 34528162 DOI: 10.1007/s10126-021-10059-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2021] [Accepted: 08/16/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Sea stars can adhere to various underwater substrata using an adhesive secretion of which Sfp1 is a major component. Sfp1 is a multimodular protein composed of four subunits (Sfp1 Alpha, Beta, Delta, and Gamma) displaying different functional domains. We recombinantly produced two fragments of Sfp1 comprising most of its functional domains: the C-terminal part of the Beta subunit (rSfp1 Beta C-term) and the Delta subunit (rSfp1 Delta). Surface plasmon resonance analyses of protein adsorption onto different model surfaces showed that rSfp1 Beta C-term exhibits a significantly higher adsorption than the fibrinogen control on hydrophobic, hydrophilic protein-resistant, and charged self-assembled monolayers, while rSfp1 Delta adsorbed more on negatively charged and on protein-resistant surfaces compared to fibrinogen. Truncated recombinant rSfp1 Beta C-term proteins were produced in order to investigate the role of the different functional domains in the adsorption of this protein. The analysis of their adsorption capacities on glass showed that two mechanisms are involved in rSfp1 Beta C-term adsorption: (1) one mediated by the EGF-like domain and involving Ca2+ and Mg2+ ions, and (2) one mediated by the sequence of Sfp1 Beta with no homology with known functional domain in databases, in the presence of Na+, Ca2+ and Mg2+ ions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathilde Lefevre
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Research Institute for Biosciences, University of Mons, Place du Parc 23, 7000, Mons, Belgium
- Laboratory for Chemistry of Novel Materials, Center for Innovation and Research in Materials and Polymers (CIRMAP), Research Institute for Materials, University of Mons, 7000, Mons, Belgium
| | - Thomas Ederth
- Division of Biophysics and Bioengineering, Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology, Linköping University, 581 83, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Thibault Masai
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Research Institute for Biosciences, University of Mons, Place du Parc 23, 7000, Mons, Belgium
| | - Ruddy Wattiez
- Laboratory of Proteomics and Microbiology, Research Institute for Biosciences, University of Mons, 7000, Mons, Belgium
| | - Philippe Leclère
- Laboratory for Chemistry of Novel Materials, Center for Innovation and Research in Materials and Polymers (CIRMAP), Research Institute for Materials, University of Mons, 7000, Mons, Belgium
| | - Patrick Flammang
- Biology of Marine Organisms and Biomimetics Unit, Research Institute for Biosciences, University of Mons, 7000, Mons, Belgium
| | - Elise Hennebert
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Research Institute for Biosciences, University of Mons, Place du Parc 23, 7000, Mons, Belgium.
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13
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Davey PA, Power AM, Santos R, Bertemes P, Ladurner P, Palmowski P, Clarke J, Flammang P, Lengerer B, Hennebert E, Rothbächer U, Pjeta R, Wunderer J, Zurovec M, Aldred N. Omics-based molecular analyses of adhesion by aquatic invertebrates. Biol Rev Camb Philos Soc 2021; 96:1051-1075. [PMID: 33594824 DOI: 10.1111/brv.12691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2020] [Revised: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Many aquatic invertebrates are associated with surfaces, using adhesives to attach to the substratum for locomotion, prey capture, reproduction, building or defence. Their intriguing and sophisticated biological glues have been the focus of study for decades. In all but a couple of specific taxa, however, the precise mechanisms by which the bioadhesives stick to surfaces underwater and (in many cases) harden have proved to be elusive. Since the bulk components are known to be based on proteins in most organisms, the opportunities provided by advancing 'omics technologies have revolutionised bioadhesion research. Time-consuming isolation and analysis of single molecules has been either replaced or augmented by the generation of massive data sets that describe the organism's translated genes and proteins. While these new approaches have provided resources and opportunities that have enabled physiological insights and taxonomic comparisons that were not previously possible, they do not provide the complete picture and continued multi-disciplinarity is essential. This review covers the various ways in which 'omics have contributed to our understanding of adhesion by aquatic invertebrates, with new data to illustrate key points. The associated challenges are highlighted and priorities are suggested for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter A Davey
- School of Natural and Environmental Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 7RU, U.K
| | - Anne Marie Power
- Ryan Institute, School of Natural Sciences, National University of Ireland Galway, Room 226, Galway, H91 TK33, Ireland
| | - Romana Santos
- Departamento de Biologia Animal, Faculdade de Ciências, Centro de Ciências do Mar e do Ambiente (MARE), Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, 1749-016, Portugal
| | - Philip Bertemes
- Institute of Zoology and Center of Molecular Biosciences Innsbruck, University of Innsbruck, Technikerstrasse 25, Innsbruck, 6020, Austria
| | - Peter Ladurner
- Institute of Zoology and Center of Molecular Biosciences Innsbruck, University of Innsbruck, Technikerstrasse 25, Innsbruck, 6020, Austria
| | - Pawel Palmowski
- School of Natural and Environmental Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 7RU, U.K
| | - Jessica Clarke
- School of Natural and Environmental Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 7RU, U.K
| | - Patrick Flammang
- Biology of Marine Organisms and Biomimetics Unit, Research Institute for Biosciences, University of Mons, Place du Parc 23, Mons, 7000, Belgium
| | - Birgit Lengerer
- Institute of Zoology and Center of Molecular Biosciences Innsbruck, University of Innsbruck, Technikerstrasse 25, Innsbruck, 6020, Austria
| | - Elise Hennebert
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Research Institute for Biosciences, University of Mons, Place du Parc 23, Mons, 7000, Belgium
| | - Ute Rothbächer
- Institute of Zoology and Center of Molecular Biosciences Innsbruck, University of Innsbruck, Technikerstrasse 25, Innsbruck, 6020, Austria
| | - Robert Pjeta
- Institute of Zoology and Center of Molecular Biosciences Innsbruck, University of Innsbruck, Technikerstrasse 25, Innsbruck, 6020, Austria
| | - Julia Wunderer
- Institute of Zoology and Center of Molecular Biosciences Innsbruck, University of Innsbruck, Technikerstrasse 25, Innsbruck, 6020, Austria
| | - Michal Zurovec
- Biology Centre of the Czech Academy of Sciences and Faculty of Sciences, University of South Bohemia, České Budějovice, 370 05, Czech Republic
| | - Nick Aldred
- School of Life Sciences, University of Essex, Wivenhoe Park, Colchester, CO4 3SQ, U.K
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Estrella LA, Yates EA, Fears KP, Schultzhaus JN, Ryou H, Leary DH, So CR. Engineered Escherichia coli Biofilms Produce Adhesive Nanomaterials Shaped by a Patterned 43 kDa Barnacle Cement Protein. Biomacromolecules 2020; 22:365-373. [PMID: 33135878 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.0c01212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Barnacles integrate multiple protein components into distinct amyloid-like nanofibers arranged as a bulk material network for their permanent underwater attachment. The design principle for how chemistry is displayed using adhesive nanomaterials, and fragments of proteins that are responsible for their formation, remains a challenge to assess and is yet to be established. Here, we use engineered bacterial biofilms to display a library of amyloid materials outside of the cell using full-length and subdomain sequences from a major component of the barnacle adhesive. A staggered charged pattern is found throughout the full-length sequence of a 43 kDa cement protein (AACP43), establishing a conserved sequence design evolved by barnacles to make adhesive nanomaterials. AACP43 domain deletions vary in their propensity to aggregate and form fibers, as exported extracellular materials are characterized through staining, immunoblotting, scanning electron microscopy, and atomic force microscopy. Full-length AACP43 and its domains have a propensity to aggregate into nanofibers independent of all other barnacle glue components, shedding light on its function in the barnacle adhesive. Curliated Escherichia coli biofilms are a compatible system for heterologous expression and the study of foreign functional amyloid adhesive materials, used here to identify the c-terminal portion of AACP43 as critical in material formation. This approach allows us to establish a common sequence pattern between two otherwise dissimilar families of cement proteins, laying the foundation to elucidate adhesive chemistries by one of the most tenacious marine fouling organisms in the ocean.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis A Estrella
- Chemistry Division, Code 6176, US Naval Research Laboratory, 4555 Overlook Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20375-5342, United States
| | - Elizabeth A Yates
- US Naval Academy Faculty sited in Code 6176, US Naval Research Laboratory, Washington, D.C. 20375, United States
| | - Kenan P Fears
- Chemistry Division, Code 6176, US Naval Research Laboratory, 4555 Overlook Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20375-5342, United States
| | - Janna N Schultzhaus
- National Research Council Research Associateship Programs Fellow sited in Code 6920, US Naval Research Laboratory, 4555 Overlook Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20375-5342, United States
| | - Heonjune Ryou
- Materials Science and Technology Division, Code 6351, US Naval Research Laboratory, 4555 Overlook Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20375-5342, United States
| | - Dagmar H Leary
- Center for Bio/Molecular Science and Engineering, Code 6920, US Naval Research Laboratory, 4555 Overlook Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20375-5342, United States
| | - Christopher R So
- Chemistry Division, Code 6176, US Naval Research Laboratory, 4555 Overlook Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20375-5342, United States
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15
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Lefevre M, Flammang P, Aranko AS, Linder MB, Scheibel T, Humenik M, Leclercq M, Surin M, Tafforeau L, Wattiez R, Leclère P, Hennebert E. Sea star-inspired recombinant adhesive proteins self-assemble and adsorb on surfaces in aqueous environments to form cytocompatible coatings. Acta Biomater 2020; 112:62-74. [PMID: 32502634 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2020.05.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2020] [Revised: 05/22/2020] [Accepted: 05/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Sea stars adhere to various underwater substrata using an efficient protein-based adhesive secretion. The protein Sfp1 is a major component of this secretion. In the natural glue, it is cleaved into four subunits (Sfp1 Alpha, Beta, Delta and Gamma) displaying specific domains which mediate protein-protein or protein-carbohydrate interactions. In this study, we used the bacterium E. coli to produce recombinantly two fragments of Sfp1 comprising most of its functional domains: the C-terminal part of the Beta subunit (rSfp1 Beta C-term) and the Delta subunit (rSfp1 Delta). Using native polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and size exclusion chromatography, we show that the proteins self-assemble and form oligomers and aggregates in the presence of NaCl. Moreover, they adsorb onto glass and polystyrene upon addition of Na+ and/or Ca2+ ions, forming homogeneous coatings or irregular meshworks, depending on the cation species and concentration. We show that coatings made of each of the two proteins have no cytotoxic effects on HeLa cells and even increase their proliferation. We propose that the Sfp1 recombinant protein coatings are valuable new materials with potential for cell culture or biomedical applications. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Biological adhesives offer impressive performance in their natural context and, therewith, the potential to inspire the development of advanced biomaterials for an increasing variety of applications in medicine or in material sciences. To date, most marine adhesive proteins that have been produced recombinantly in order to develop bio-inspired adhesives are small proteins from mussels and barnacles. Here, we produced two multi-modular proteins based on the sequence of Sfp1, a major protein from sea star adhesive secretion. These two proteins comprise most of Sfp1 functional domains which mediate protein-protein and protein-carbohydrate interactions. We characterized the two recombinant proteins with an emphasis on functional characteristics such as self-assembly, adsorption and cytocompatibility. We discuss their potential as biomaterials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathilde Lefevre
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Research Institute for Biosciences, University of Mons, Place du Parc 23, 7000 Mons, Belgium; Laboratory for Chemistry of Novel Materials, Research Institute for Materials, Center for Innovation and Research in Materials and Polymers (CIRMAP), University of Mons, Place du Parc 23, 7000 Mons, Belgium
| | - Patrick Flammang
- Biology of Marine Organisms and Biomimetics Unit, Research Institute for Biosciences, University of Mons, Place du Parc 23, 7000 Mons, Belgium
| | - A Sesilja Aranko
- Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems, School of Chemical Engineering, Aalto University, P.O. Box 16100, FI-02150 Espoo, Finland
| | - Markus B Linder
- Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems, School of Chemical Engineering, Aalto University, P.O. Box 16100, FI-02150 Espoo, Finland
| | - Thomas Scheibel
- Department of Biomaterials, Faculty of Engineering Science, University of Bayreuth, Prof.-Rüdiger-Bormann Str.1, 95447 Bayreuth, Germany
| | - Martin Humenik
- Department of Biomaterials, Faculty of Engineering Science, University of Bayreuth, Prof.-Rüdiger-Bormann Str.1, 95447 Bayreuth, Germany
| | - Maxime Leclercq
- Laboratory for Chemistry of Novel Materials, Research Institute for Materials, Center for Innovation and Research in Materials and Polymers (CIRMAP), University of Mons, Place du Parc 23, 7000 Mons, Belgium
| | - Mathieu Surin
- Laboratory for Chemistry of Novel Materials, Research Institute for Materials, Center for Innovation and Research in Materials and Polymers (CIRMAP), University of Mons, Place du Parc 23, 7000 Mons, Belgium
| | - Lionel Tafforeau
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Research Institute for Biosciences, University of Mons, Place du Parc 23, 7000 Mons, Belgium
| | - Ruddy Wattiez
- Laboratory of Proteomics and Microbiology, Research Institute for Biosciences, University of Mons, Place du Parc 23, 7000 Mons, Belgium
| | - Philippe Leclère
- Laboratory for Chemistry of Novel Materials, Research Institute for Materials, Center for Innovation and Research in Materials and Polymers (CIRMAP), University of Mons, Place du Parc 23, 7000 Mons, Belgium
| | - Elise Hennebert
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Research Institute for Biosciences, University of Mons, Place du Parc 23, 7000 Mons, Belgium.
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16
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Aldred N. Transdisciplinary approaches to the study of adhesion and adhesives in biological systems. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2019; 374:20190191. [PMID: 31495317 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2019.0191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Nick Aldred
- School of Natural and Environmental Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 7RU, UK
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