Nanoscale Bio-Recognition: From Proteins Separation to Proteins Aggregation

Bio-recognition, in particular protein-protein interaction, is essential at the nanoscale level in many biological processes (enzyme-subtract interaction, immune response, signaling pathways).  Even though our knowledge of the molecular/structural basis of these interactions is limited, scientists have found a way to apply these interactions to many different applications:  Affinity chromatography, bio-sensors, drug delivery, etc.  My PhD work focused on affinity membranes for bioseparations. The research centered around the development (selection of ligands, modification of membranes) and testing (batch and dynamic adsorption experiments, modeling, estimation of binding capacity, dissociation and kinetic constants, effect of ionic strength and flux) of affinity membranes for the purification of (i) monoclonal antibodies, (ii) lectins and (iii) MBP-fusion proteins.  More recently, during my post-doc, I have continued to work on several projects, focused on protein separation as well as protein-protein interactions.  The poster will report some recent results on the following topics:  Synthesis and characterization of customized membranes for the separation of proteins with similar molecular weight and charge; biophysical characterization of fibrillar precursors, also called oligomers and protofibrils, during amyloidosis process; direct interaction between three different pairs of split-inteins.  I have broadened my background as a chemical engineer, integrating many bio-tools. I plan to continue my career keeping these two entities together and studying protein-protein recognition both as basic science (e.g. better understand the mechanism of human diseases) and applied science (e.g. improve bioseparation).