| AVS 54th International Symposium | |
| Biomaterial Interfaces | Tuesday Sessions |
| Session BI-TuP |
| Session: | Biomaterials Interfaces Poster Session |
| Presenter: | M.A. Firestone, Argonne National Laboratory |
| Authors: | C.T. Burns, Argonne National Laboratory S.Y. Choi, Argonne National Laboratory M.A. Firestone, Argonne National Laboratory |
| Correspondent: | Click to Email |
Interfacing biomolecules to inorganic frameworks is essential for fabricating robust, functionally integrated biocomposites that may prove useful in a wide range of technologies including biocatalysis, biosensors or protein-based devices. Our work is directed at developing means to integrate biomolecules (e.g., proteins) into 'active' mesostructured inorganics. These active frameworks serve to both improve the mechanical stability (robustness) of the proteins and to facilitate communication with the encapsulated guests. Toward that end, we have synthesized and characterized a variety of photoactive mesoporous silicas and have examined the encapsulation of soluble proteins within them. Specifically, we have both carried out post-synthesis modification of the silica pore surface and prepared organosilicas in which spiropyran groups are homogeneously incorporated throughout the walls of the mesoporous silicas as a means to introduce photo- and redox active moieties within the frameworks. Protein incorporation within mesostructured titania thin films has also been achieved. The synthetic strategies used to prepare these materials, and details of the characterization of the frameworks and the biocomposites will be presented.