Biological path for functional nanostructure fabrication and nanodevices. Issue 3 (28th October 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Yamashita, Ichiro
• Is Part Of: Surface innovations. Volume 4:Issue 3(2016:Sep.)
• Page Start: 111
• Page End: 120
• Publication Date: 2016-10-28
• Subjects: bioinspired -- nanomaterials -- nanotechnology; Surfaces (Technology) -- Periodicals; Surfaces (Physics) -- Periodicals; 620.44
• DOI: 10.1680/jsuin.16.00015
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2050-6260

Abstract

Abstract : The fabrication of nanostructures by biomolecules is proposed. The process utilises biotemplated biomineralisation of inorganic materials and self-assembly, termed the 'bio–nano process' (BNP). Artificial proteins are designed to construct functional nanometric structures in combination with top–down miniaturisation technologies. Genetically modified cage-shaped proteins, ferritin and deoxyribonucleic acid-binding protein from starved cells, are the most studied biotemplates for the BNP. The inner cavity is used as a spatially restricted chamber for the synthesis of homogeneous metal, metal-complex and semiconductor nanoparticles (NPs). Proteins with NP cores are delivered onto specific substrate locations or carbon nanotube surfaces by electrostatic interaction or specific binding peptides. These NPs realise a variety of functions such as charge storage nodes for floating gate memory, catalysts for carbon nanotube growth, quantum wells in heterogeneous junctions and nanoetching masks. Cage-shaped protein-based bioconjugates play an important role and expand the application fields. The BNP is capable of producing functional nanostructures that are otherwise impossible through other methods.