Andy Smith is a recipient of an IC summer research grant. His research project is entitled, "The mechanism of action of molluscan glue proteins".
Abstract:
Many molluscs use sticky gels to form strong attachments. These gels are similar to the mucus that molluscs use for lubrication, except for the addition of proteins that we have named “glue proteins”. These glue proteins cause a marked increase in gel stiffness and the ability of gels to wet different surfaces. The goal of this study is to identify the mechanism by which the glue proteins cause these effects. Specifically, we will test the hypothesis that the glue proteins work by ionically crosslinking larger polymers. This summer’s work will comprise the first stages in this endeavor, and will provide data to strengthen a grant proposal for the full project. This summer, we will finish preliminary work demonstrating the utility of our methods, and submit this for publication. Then, we will test the ionic crosslinking hypothesis in three ways: 1) We will add glue proteins to gels, then progressively block putative crosslinking sites to see if that blocks the gel stiffening effect of the glue proteins. 2) We will use column chromatography to measure the ability of the glue proteins to form ionic bonds to an immobilized substrate. 3) We will begin work determining the structure of the glue proteins, with the goal of identifying possible crosslinking regions. The ultimate goal of our research is to determine how the glue proteins work, and what factors affect their performance. This will be invaluable in designing artificial adhesives with the same properties. Such adhesives have great promise for a wide variety of medical applications because of their flexibility, biocompatibility and ability to adhere to wet, irregular surfaces.
https://www.ithaca.edu/intercom/article.php/20050406151522645