Affiliation:
1. Wenzhou Institute University of Chinese Academy of Sciences Wenzhou 325001 China
2. Biohybrid Materials, Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems Aalto University 02150 Espoo Finland
3. Smart Photonic Materials, Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences Tampere University P.O. Box 541 33101 Tampere Finland
Abstract
AbstractProtein crystallization is an important tool for structural biology and nanostructure preparation. Here, we report on kinetic pathway‐dependent protein crystals that are controlled by light. Photo‐responsive crystallites are obtained by complexing the model proteins with cationic azobenzene dyes. The crystalline state is readily switched to a dispersed phase under ultraviolet light and restored by subsequent visible‐light illumination. The switching can be reversibly repeated for multiple cycles without noticeable structure deterioration. Importantly, the photo‐treatment not only significantly increases the crystallinity, but creates crystallites at conditions where no ordered lattices are observed upon directly mixing the components. Further control over the azobenzene isomerization kinetics produces protein single crystals of up to ≈50 μm. This approach offers an intriguing method to fabricate metamaterials and study optically controlled crystallization.
Funder
H2020 European Research Council
Jane ja Aatos Erkon Säätiö
Magnus Ehrnroothin Säätiö
National Natural Science Foundation of China
Wenzhou Institute of Biomaterials and Engineering
Academy of Finland