Researchers unlock new level of precision in supramolecular materials

The lab of Samuel I. Stupp has built giant, precisely patterned molecular threads called supramolecular polymers, reported in Science. Made from self-assembling molecules, the longest threads exceed the diameter of a cell and are roughly 100 times more massive than very large conventional polymers. In cell culture studies, the structures enhanced neuron growth and increased synapse formation, pointing to new biomaterials for regenerative medicine.

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The shape of water defines the hotspot that starts protein aggregation in dementia

Researchers in the lab of Songi Han have identified the single hotspot that starts tau protein aggregation in diseases such as Alzheimer’s and frontotemporal dementia. Reported in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, the work with UC Santa Barbara collaborators shows that water shields the hotspot, and releasing that water pulls neighboring tau together. Blocking the site stopped misfolded tau from spreading, pointing to a new drug target.

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Wearable Nanotech Could Combat Nerve Agents

The labs of Nathan Gianneschi and Omar Farha have developed water-activated nanoparticles that could protect soldiers and farmers from nerve agents and pesticides. Reported in ACS Nano, the non-toxic, bioinspired melanin compounds can be mixed into clothing dyes for uniforms, masks and gloves. They could also be sprayed onto clothing with water after exposure, deactivating toxic chemicals before they cause harm.

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