Nature is unparalleled in its structural and functional diversity. We have taken cues from nature to design nanostructures that are functionalized with biological molecules, complete with tailored selectivities and biocatalytic activities. Herein we highlight our recent efforts to exploit the interface of biology with materials science, with a particular focus on enzyme-nanomaterial composites with a wide range of activities that endow surfaces with self-cleaning properties. In particular, surfaces have been generated with tailored activity against pathogens (e.g., MRSA), spores, and chemical toxicants. Various enzymes have been used, including cell wall lytic enzymes that selectively target pathogens in a manner that is extremely difficult for the pathogen to gain resistance, as well as reagent-requiring enzymes that rapidly generate potent oxidants at a local surface, thus neutralizing spores and bacteria. Such activity provides a safe and potentially broadly applicable route to eliminating toxic compounds and pathogenic microorganisms from common surfaces.

Enzyme-based nanocomposites: Using nature to ward off emerging threats

244th National Meeting (2012)

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