Higher-Order Structures Based on Molecular Interactions for the Formation of Natural and Artificial Biomaterials

Abstract

The assembly of molecular building blocks into highly ordered structures is crucial, both in nature and for the development of novel functional materials. In nature, noncovalent interactions, such as hydrogen bonds or hydrophobic interactions, enable the reversible assembly of biopolymers, such as DNA or proteins. Inspired by these design principles, scientists have created biohybrid materials that employ natural building blocks and their assembly properties. Thus, structures and materials are attainable that cannot be made through other synthetic procedures. Herein, we review current concepts and highlight recent advances.

Keywords: nanomaterials; nanoparticles; protein containers; protein design; self-assembly.