Synthesis and Characterization of Mesostructured Silicas and Gold Frameworks as Active Matrices for Biomolecule Encapsulation

Interfacing of biomolecules to inorganic frameworks is essential for fabricating robust, functionally integrated biocomposites that may prove useful in a wide range of technologies including biocatalysis, biosensors or protein-based devices. Our work is directed at developing means to integrate biomolecules into mesostructured inorganics. These frameworks serve to both improve the mechanical stability of the proteins and to facilitate communication with them. Toward that end, we have synthesized and characterized mesoporous silicas and conductive metallic frameworks and have examined the encapsulation of both soluble (cytochrome c) and membrane proteins (bacteriorhodpsin) within them.