Article
Chemistry, Physical
Ruixiang Yao, Xun Li, Nan Xiao, Wengui Weng, Wenke Zhang
Summary: The study found that the ring-opening of STP at room temperature requires forces of around 200-400 pN, and the process of STP transforming into TMC is reversible. Mechanochemically induced intermolecular Click addition was achieved by pulling STP in the presence of maleimide.
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Anton O. Razgoniaev, Logan M. Glasstetter, Tatiana B. Kouznetsova, Kacey C. Hall, Matias Horst, Stephen L. Craig, Katherine J. Franz
Summary: The experimental characterization of the mechanochemical scission of metal-NHC bonds in N-heterocyclic carbene mechanophores has been reported. The study reveals a force-coupled rate constant for ligand dissociation and supports a dissociative mechanism of ligand displacement, with the rate-limiting scission of Pd-NHC bond followed by rapid dissociation of the pyridine moiety from Pd.
JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN CHEMICAL SOCIETY
(2021)
Article
Polymer Science
Junpeng Wang, Tatiana B. Kouznetsova, Jianshe Xia, Felipe Jimenez Angeles, Monica Olvera de la Cruz, Stephen L. Craig
Summary: Single-molecule force spectroscopy is a powerful tool for studying the properties of individual polymer strands. However, the weak attachment between the atomic force microscope tip and the analyte limits its efficiency. In this study, we developed a polyelectrolyte handle that provides strong attachment, high success rate, non-fouling detachment, and specific attachment locations along the polymer strand.
JOURNAL OF POLYMER SCIENCE
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Floriane Devaux, Xuesong Li, Damien Sluysmans, Victor Maurizot, Evangelos Bakalis, Francesco Zerbetto, Ivan Huc, Anne-Sophie Duwez
Summary: Reducing the size of molecules does not compromise their mechanical properties, and in fact, smaller molecular sizes may exhibit better elasticity. Through single-molecule force spectroscopy, it was found that helical aromatic oligoamides possess outstanding extensibility and can cooperatively and reversibly unfold under high forces. The mechanical energy accumulated during stretching is immediately reusable without dissipating, as indicated by the consistent pulling and relaxing cycles at very high loading rates.
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Takanori Harashima, Shintaro Fujii, Yuki Jono, Tsuyoshi Terakawa, Noriyuki Kurita, Satoshi Kaneko, Manabu Kiguchi, Tomoaki Nishino
Summary: The electrical properties of DNA in the field of molecular electronics have been extensively studied, with a focus on the higher-order structures and design changes associated with single-molecule electronic devices. Researchers have developed a DNA zipper configuration to form a single-molecule junction, which exhibits high conductivity and an attractive self-restoring capability. This strategy provides a basis for novel designs of single-molecule junctions.
NATURE COMMUNICATIONS
(2021)
Article
Polymer Science
Xiaoye Zhang, Dandan Li, Yu Song, Wenke Zhang
Summary: In this study, the mechanical stability and melting pathway of highly stereoregular syndiotactic polypropylene (s-PP) were investigated using atomic force microscopy (AFM)-based single molecule force spectroscopy (SMFS). It was found that crystal thickness and structure have significant impacts on mechanical stability and melting pathway.
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Lu Qian, Kai Zhang, Xin Guo, Miao Yu
Summary: Chitin and chitosan are derived from each other, with chitosan having better solubility than chitin. The specific mechanism of this conversion is still unclear. In this study, atomic force microscopy (AFM)-based single molecule force spectroscopy (SMFS) was used to investigate the mechanical properties of chitin and chitosan. The results suggest that the state of hydrogen bonds, influenced by the solvent, determines the degree of water binding (solubility) of polysaccharides. The binding water energy of a single chitosan chain is 6 times higher than that of chitin in water. It is proposed that hydrogen bonding is the key to solubility enhancement and can be used to modulate the solubility properties of chitosan. The findings of this study contribute to the understanding of the structural and functional properties of chitin and chitosan at the single molecule level.
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Hamed Nosrati, Mohammad Khodaei, Zohreh Alizadeh, Mehdi Banitalebi-Dehkordi
Summary: The limitations of current approaches for wound healing have led to the development of more efficient alternative approaches, such as polysaccharide-based scaffolds. These scaffolds have distinctive properties that make them ideal for wound healing applications, including biocompatibility, biodegradability, high water retention capacity, and nontoxicity.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BIOLOGICAL MACROMOLECULES
(2021)
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Rebeca Bocanegra, Ismael G. A. Plaza, Carlos R. Pulido, Borja Ibarra
Summary: The study reveals that the replisome machinery is stochastic, versatile, and highly dynamic, with transient protein-protein and protein-DNA interactions playing a key role in robust DNA replication.
COMPUTATIONAL AND STRUCTURAL BIOTECHNOLOGY JOURNAL
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Hai Lei, Junsheng Zhang, Ying Li, Xin Wang, Meng Qin, Wei Wang, Yi Cao
Summary: In this study, a histidine-specific phosphorylation strategy was developed to covalently anchor proteins to an atomic force microscopy. This method improved the data quality of single-molecule force spectroscopy experiments and was successfully applied to investigate the mechanical stability and unfolding process of proteins.
Article
Polymer Science
Lu Qian, Kai Zhang, Xin Guo, Junyu Zhou, Miao Yu
Summary: The study found that there was almost no difference in the single-chain elasticity of gelatin in nonane and DI water. When a single gelatin chain is pulled into loose nonane, dehydration does not occur due to strong binding water interactions. Gelatin chains can only interact with water molecules at high temperatures.
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Haipei Liu, Zhaowei Liu, Mariana Sa Santos, Michael A. A. Nash
Summary: Single-molecule force spectroscopy (SMFS) is a powerful tool for studying protein folding and mechanical properties. However, the traditional method of immobilization using lysine residues results in a heterogeneous distribution of tether positions. In this study, we compared lysine-based immobilization to site-specific immobilization using genetically encoded peptide tags (ybbR). Our results showed that lysine-based immobilization led to signal deterioration and incorrect classification of unfolding pathways. We also developed a mixed immobilization approach that partially recovered specific signals.
ANGEWANDTE CHEMIE-INTERNATIONAL EDITION
(2023)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Manish Bajaj, Mohd Muddassir, Bumjoon Choi, Priyanka Singh, Jong Bum Park, Surjeet Singh, Manisha Yadav, Rajesh Kumar, Kilho Eom, Deepak Sharma
Summary: This study investigates the effect of osmolytes on the mechanical unfolding properties of protein domain using atomic force microscopy. The results show that amines and methylamines enhance the mechanical stability of the protein, while polyols have no effect. Glycine betaine and trimethylamine-N-oxide increase the average unfolding force of the protein domain. These findings have potential applications in modulating the mechanical stability of proteins for nano-biotechnological purposes.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BIOLOGICAL MACROMOLECULES
(2023)
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Rafayel Petrosyan, Abhishek Narayan, Michael T. Woodside
Summary: Single-molecule force spectroscopy (SMFS) is a powerful tool for studying protein folding dynamics, uncovering energy landscapes of folding, complex folding pathways, mechanisms of chaperones in assisting folding, effects of ribosomes on co-translational folding, and monitoring membrane protein folding.
JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR BIOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Polymer Science
Wei Zhang, Jue Hou, Nan Li, Wen-ke Zhang
Summary: This review discusses the widespread use of AFM-based SMFS in investigating molecular forces, especially in the characterization of synthetic polymers and biopolymers. It covers the principles, protocols, and recent advances in this field, emphasizing the importance of understanding molecular interactions for both polymer materials and biopolymer functionality.
ACTA POLYMERICA SINICA
(2021)
Article
Anatomy & Morphology
Deva D. Chan, Maleeha Mashiatulla, Jun Li, Ryan D. Ross, Meghana Pendyala, Amit Patwa, Mark W. Grinstaff, Anna Plaas, D. Rick Sumner
Summary: This study uses contrast-enhanced micro-computed tomography to track the spatiotemporal patterns of cartilage and bone degeneration in a mouse model of osteoarthritis. The findings provide important insights for the development of targeted therapies for osteoarthritis.
ANATOMICAL RECORD-ADVANCES IN INTEGRATIVE ANATOMY AND EVOLUTIONARY BIOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Ruiqing Xiao, Jialiu Zeng, Eric M. Bressler, Wei Lu, Mark W. Grinstaff
Summary: This study presents the synthesis of (1 -> 6)-beta-glucose-branched poly-amido-saccharides as glycan-mimetics and demonstrates macrophage stimulation and polarization.
NATURE COMMUNICATIONS
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Aaron H. Colby, Jack Kirsch, Amit N. Patwa, Rong Liu, Beth Hollister, William McCulloch, Joanna E. Burdette, Cedric J. Pearce, Nicholas H. Oberliels, Yolonda L. Colson, Kebin Liu, Mark W. Grinstaff
Summary: The distribution of fluorescently labeled expansile nanoparticles (eNPs) in vivo is crucial for the success of nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems. Quantitative evaluation of eNPs' biodistribution in a murine model of intraperitoneal mesothelioma was conducted using synthesized 14C-labeled eNPs and liquid scintillation counting. The results showed a strong tumor specificity of eNPs, with an overall delivery efficiency of 30% to the tumor tissue, which is higher than other nanoparticle delivery systems. Administration routes had a significant impact on eNPs' targeting strategy, with intraperitoneal administration leading to tumor accumulation while intravenous administration resulted in rapid clearance and low tumor accumulation. These findings lay the foundation for targeting intraperitoneal tumors and exploring alternative delivery routes for nanoparticle therapies.
Article
Cardiac & Cardiovascular Systems
Lillian L. Tsai, Danielle M. Fitzgerald, Rong Liu, Jenny T. Korunes-Miller, Eliza Neal, Yin P. Hung, Samantha Bilton, Aaron Hata, Mark W. Grinstaff, Yolonda L. Colson
Summary: A PDX surgical resection model of non-small cell lung cancer was established in mice, and it was found that intraoperative placement of drug-loaded meshes significantly improved local disease treatment, suggesting a potential improvement in recurrence-free survival for early-stage non-small cell lung cancer patients.
ANNALS OF THORACIC SURGERY
(2023)
Article
Materials Science, Biomaterials
Ismail Altinbasak, Salli Kocak, Aaron H. Colby, Yasin Alp, Rana Sanyal, Mark W. Grinstaff, Amitav Sanyal
Summary: Electrospun nanofibers have numerous advantages as a scaffold for drug delivery devices. A new pH-responsive nanofiber buttress was synthesized via electrospinning. The buttress transforms from a hydrophobic to a hydrophilic state under relevant pH conditions and releases the encapsulated drug. It shows controlled drug release and cytotoxicity to cancer cells.
BIOMATERIALS SCIENCE
(2023)
Article
Nanoscience & Nanotechnology
Danielle M. Fitzgerald, Yolonda L. Colson, Mark W. Grinstaff
Summary: Pressure-sensitive adhesives, commonly found in households, have various applications in everyday life. With advancements in material and polymer science, these adhesives are transitioning from commodity to specialty materials, leading to new clinical uses and improved patient care.
NATURE REVIEWS MATERIALS
(2023)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Jialiu Zeng, Rebeca Acin-Perez, Essam A. Assali, Andrew Martin, Alexandra J. Brownstein, Anton Petcherski, Lucia Fernandez-del-Rio, Ruiqing Xiao, Chih Hung Lo, Michael Shum, Marc Liesa, Xue Han, Orian S. Shirihai, Mark W. Grinstaff
Summary: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common liver disease worldwide. This study synthesizes acid-activated acidifying nanoparticles to restore lysosomal function and reverse fasting hyperglycemia and hepatic steatosis in NAFLD. In high fat diet mouse models, treatment with these nanoparticles restores autophagy and mitochondrial function to lean, healthy levels, showing the potential therapeutic use for NAFLD.
NATURE COMMUNICATIONS
(2023)
Review
Polymer Science
Xingyu Hu, Mark W. Grinstaff
Summary: Millions of individuals undergo gastrointestinal (GI) tract surgeries each year, which often lead to complications such as bleeding, perforation, leakage, and infection. Hydrogel adhesives have shown promise in treating GI tract wounds due to their atraumatic nature, sealing capability, healing properties, and ease of use. However, challenges such as weak underwater adhesive strength and slow gelation need to be addressed. This review summarizes recent advancements in hydrogel adhesives for GI tract wounds, focusing on material designs and compositions to overcome the specific challenges posed by GI injuries.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Chloe Grazon, Elisabeth Garanger, Pierre Lalanne, Emmanuel Ibarboure, James E. Galagan, Mark W. Grinstaff, Sebastien Lecommandoux
Summary: Polymeric micelles based on natural diblocks, such as elastin-like polypeptide (ELP) and oligonucleotide (ON), have advantageous properties in terms of molecular recognition, biocompatibility, and biodegradability. This study reports a straightforward synthesis of ON-b-ELP diblock bioconjugates through copper-catalyzed azide-alkyne cycloaddition. The resulting micelles self-assemble above their critical micelle temperature (CMT) to form stable structures, and they retain their stability and temperature sensitivity when binding with proteins.
Article
Orthopedics
Heta Orava, Petri Paakkari, Jiri Jantti, Miitu K. M. Honkanen, Juuso T. J. Honkanen, Tuomas Viren, Anisha Joenathan, Petri Tanska, Rami K. Korhonen, Mark W. Grinstaff, Juha Toyras, Janne T. A. Makela
Summary: In this study, a triple contrast agent was used to image and segment cadaveric knee joints in CT. The results showed that large BiNPs do not diffuse into cartilage, facilitating straightforward segmentation. The concentration of CA4+ was significantly higher in femoral cartilage than in tibial cartilage, corresponding to the biomechanical differences observed. This suggests that triple contrast agent CT has potential for assessing cartilage morphology and condition in a clinical setting.
JOURNAL OF ORTHOPAEDIC RESEARCH
(2023)
Review
Polymer Science
Danielle M. Fitzgerald, Yolonda L. Colson, Mark W. Grinstaff
Summary: Pressure sensitive adhesives are widely used in everyday products and have the potential for greater use in medicine. The strength of adhesion depends on the chemical and material properties of the adhesive formulation and its interaction with the surface. This review focuses on the structure-property relationships of polymer architecture and pressure sensitive adhesion, specifically in the context of durable, removable, and biocompatible adhesion to wet surfaces like tissue. Challenges in biomedical wound closure are also discussed, along with innovative strategies to address them.
PROGRESS IN POLYMER SCIENCE
(2023)
Article
Polymer Science
Danielle M. M. Fitzgerald, Heng Zhang, Catalina Bordeianu, Yolonda L. L. Colson, Mark W. W. Grinstaff
Summary: This study describes the synthesis of mPEG-b-PGC block copolymers using a cobaltsalen catalyst via the ring-opening polymerization of benzyl glycidyl ether, monomethoxylated polyethylene glycol, and carbon dioxide. The resulting block copolymers exhibit high polymer/cyclic carbonate selectivity (>99%) and random incorporation of oxirane monomers. The diblock mPEG-b-PGC polymer shows promise as a nanocarrier for sustained chemotherapeutic delivery without the need for surfactants.
Review
Oncology
Eric M. Bressler, Sarah Adams, Rong Liu, Yolonda L. Colson, Wilson W. Wong, Mark W. Grinstaff
Summary: The intersection of synthetic biology and biomaterials holds great promise for improving safety and efficacy in novel therapeutics. Recent research has shown that the use of Boolean logic in these fields can lead to the development of new and effective living therapeutics, such as stimuli-responsive drug delivery devices and logic-gated CAR T cells. Collaborations between synthetic biology and biomaterials have resulted in advancements in drug delivery and cell therapy, with potential benefits including enhanced safety and efficacy.
CLINICAL AND TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE
(2023)
Review
Oncology
Sue Zhang, Kathryn Regan, Julian Najera, Mark W. Grinstaff, Meenal Datta, Hadi T. Nia
Summary: Cancer initiation and progression lead to significant changes in the microenvironment at the interface between healthy and malignant tissue, known as the peritumor. The peritumor is characterized by unique physical and immune attributes, which contribute to tumor progression through interconnected mechanical signaling and immune activity. Understanding and targeting the biomarkers and therapeutic targets in the peritumor is crucial for future cancer research and clinical advancements, particularly in overcoming resistance to immunotherapy.
Meeting Abstract
Oncology
Alexandre, Jeremy Korunes-Miller, David Mahvi, Lillian Tsai, Rong Liu, Aaron Colby, Mark Grinstaff, Katalina Baehring, Yolonda Colson, Chandrajit Raut
ANNALS OF SURGICAL ONCOLOGY
(2022)
