Abstract
Cross-linking and cross-bridging are highly versatile methods of creating composite protein structures with desired mechanical properties such as deformation endurance, elasticity, extensibility, and stability under intensive and repetitive sheering forces. Cross-linking and cross-bridging are distinguished by the bonds that hold the structural components together. Cross-linking implies a covalent association, whereas cross-bridging depends on biological recognition, in which hydrogen bonding, ionic, and hydrophobic interactions predominate. Cross-bridged structures are found in all living systems. Cytoskeletal interaction, cell invasion by pathogens, fertilization, and cellulosomal degradation of cellulose are all examples of biological processes in which cross-bridging proteins play a key role. This article will review the different types of biological cross-bridging proteins that are known and discuss their emerging nano- and biotechnological applications.
Original language | American English |
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Pages (from-to) | 33-49 |
Number of pages | 17 |
Journal | Current Protein and Peptide Science |
Volume | 5 |
Issue number | 1 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Feb 2004 |
Keywords
- Biotechnology
- Cross bridging
- Nanotechnology
- Scaffold
- Self-assembly