Research

Putting proteins to work

The development of efficient new health care options will rely on protein-based technologies. We are working in this direction and two initiatives are highlighted below.

The super-material: spider silk

The use of new biomaterials in vivo requires superior strength and elasticity. Spider silk, which is being examined here, offers a unique combination of these features. Therefore, work in this area holds promise for new material development.

Directing protein behaviour: aggregation and assembly

Healthy and unhealthy protein association can occur in many biological processes. By examining the molecular mechanisms of these sticky processes, we can offer new ways of tailoring them for safer and more efficient tissue storage, processing, and use. We may eventually offer new options to modulate protein aggregation and assembly events in patients to prevent or to treat disease.