Grant: Discovery Grants Program - Individual

Nature presents us with materials showing a remarkable variety of physical, chemical and biological properties. These biomaterials achieve their highly specialized properties through hierarchical assembly involving structural elements at different length scales, from the nanoscale up to the macroscale. Our research aims to understand how the chemical interactions between "soft" (protein) and "hard" (mineral) components lead to composite supramolecular assemblies with particular properties. In addition to creating new materials, we are also developing new methodology to characterize these materials, such as force spectroscopy. In the longer term, we will gain a better understanding of general protein mineralization processes that are at the core of many important physiological processes. Some are beneficial (such as bone growth and development) while others are pathological (such as artery hardening). Understanding the fundamental process behind protein mineralization may lead to future therapies for conditions such as osteoporosis or arthritis. In the nearer term, this understanding can lead to better artificial biomaterials to enhance the biocompatibility of prosthetics.