Multivalent interactions in the engagement with biological and materials systems

Multivalent interactions in the engagement with biological and materials systems 


Multivalent interactions in the engagement with biological and materials systems

Influenza viruses start infection by adhering to a cell’s surface through protein-sugar (glycan) interactions. Although a single protein-glycan interaction is weak, the overall affinity rises exponentially if there are multiple binding connections. This phenomena is known as multivalency.

We are looking for a motivated Bachelor/Master student to study the multivalent binding of molecules, materials and biological particles (such as viruses, extracellular vesicles, and bacteria).

Several interesting research questions can be part of the assignment:

  1. How many interaction pairs (for example, between proteins of a virus and glycan receptors on a model cell surface) are needed to form a stable bond with receptor-coated surfaces?
  2. What is the minimum receptor density of the receptor for the virus particles start to bind/release?
  3. Which surface and receptor chemistries can be used to build models for cell membranes and proper sensing platforms to detect the binding of multivalent targets?
  4. Can we transfer the multivalent binding mode from biological systems to chemical materials systems, for example, to develop 2D nanomaterials as new antiviral drugs, and to achieve the selective and controlled assembly of materials building blocks?

These questions can guide future applications of multivalent interactions and optimize the sensing and isolation of important biological targets for application in healthcare and materials science.

The project will teach: (i) different binding techniques in solution and on surfaces; (ii) different surface chemistries to create the receptor layer and to tune the receptor density; (iii) fundamental and energetic aspects of multivalent molecular recognition.

Contact info:

Supervisor:
Jurriaan Huskens, j.huskens@utwente.nl 

Daily Supervisor:
Daniel Tambuwun, d.y.e.l.tambuwun@utwente.nl