Nanoscale device architectures derived from biological assemblies: The case of tobacco mosaic virus and (apo)ferritin. (23rd February 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Calò, Annalisa; Eiben, Sabine; Okuda, Mitsuhiro; Bittner, Alexander M.
• Is Part Of: Japanese journal of applied physics. Volume 55:Number 3(2016:Mar.)Supplement 2
• Publication Date: 2016-02-23
• Subjects: Physics -- Periodicals; 621.05
• DOI: 10.7567/JJAP.55.03DA01
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0021-4922

Abstract

Abstract: Virus particles and proteins are excellent examples of naturally occurring structures with well-defined nanoscale architectures, for example, cages and tubes. These structures can be employed in a bottom-up assembly strategy to fabricate repetitive patterns of hybrid organic–inorganic materials. In this paper, we review methods of assembly that make use of protein and virus scaffolds to fabricate patterned nanostructures with very high spatial control. We chose (apo)ferritin and tobacco mosaic virus (TMV) as model examples that have already been applied successfully in nanobiotechnology. Their interior space and their exterior surfaces can be mineralized with inorganic layers or nanoparticles. Furthermore, their native assembly abilities can be exploited to generate periodic architectures for integration in electrical and magnetic devices. We introduce the state of the art and describe recent advances in biomineralization techniques, patterning and device production with (apo)ferritin and TMV.