Design and properties of functional nanotubes from the self-assembly of cyclic peptide templates

Chem Soc Rev. 2012 Sep 21;41(18):6023-41. doi: 10.1039/c2cs35172b. Epub 2012 Aug 9.

Abstract

β-Sheet forming self assembling cyclic peptides offer a versatile scaffold for the construction and control of hydrogen-bonded nanotube assemblies. These structures have major advantages over other nanoscale tubular structures, including sub-nanometer control over the internal diameter, and the ability to control internal and external chemical functionality. This Tutorial Review presents an overview of nanotubes derived from this class of cyclic peptides. The design rationale for functional nanotubes based on cyclic peptide ring size and chemical functionality is discussed. Additionally, we highlight the recent expansion of the nanotube toolbox through conjugation of (macro)molecules to the cyclic peptides. These provide additional functionality and control nanotube dimensions that could potentially prove beneficial in future applications.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / chemical synthesis
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / chemistry
  • Gene Transfer Techniques
  • Humans
  • Ion Channels / chemical synthesis
  • Ion Channels / chemistry
  • Models, Molecular
  • Nanotechnology / methods*
  • Nanotubes / chemistry*
  • Peptides, Cyclic / chemical synthesis
  • Peptides, Cyclic / chemistry*
  • Polymers / chemical synthesis
  • Polymers / chemistry

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents
  • Ion Channels
  • Peptides, Cyclic
  • Polymers