Switchable catalytic activity: selenium-containing peptides with redox-controllable self-assembly properties

Abstract

Mimicking nature: The reversible formation of self-assembled nanostructures of selenium-containing peptides can be controlled by redox triggers (see scheme, VC = vitamin C). As a consequence, the catalytic activity of these peptides is switchable. These results should lead to the development of nature-mimicking smart materials with promising properties.

Keywords: hydrogels; peptides; redox chemistry; selenium; self-assembly.