Water structure and dynamics
Water is essential for life. We are interested in the structure and dynamics of water under extreme environmental conditions. Our investigations combine neutron diffraction experiments at the ISIS neutron & muon Facility and computational modelling to determine the atomistic level structure of the liquid mixtures. In collaboration with Prof Mike Ries & Dr Dan Baker at Leeds we explore the dynamics of the same liquids using NMR. Join us for a Virtual weekly Water journal club to learn more!
Single molecule manipulation
Single molecule force spectroscopy is a powerful tool to explore the response of biological molecules to the application of an applied force. This approach provides valuable insight into biomolecule mechanical stability, as well as details of the underlying energy landscape. We mechanically manipulate proteins from extremophilic organisms to understand how they can remain folded and functional in environmentally extreme conditions. Extremophile proteins provide fascinating model systems for understanding the physics of life.
We are creating folded protein hydrogels which possess specific biological function capabilities, enabling dynamic changes in mechanical and structural properties in response to biomolecular cues. This is achieved through a cross length scale, physics-based approach which will translate knowledge of the nanoscale biophysics of folded proteins to the mesoscale architecture and function of novel folded polyprotein hydrogels. By understanding the physics of the building block (the folded protein) and its connectivity (the polyprotein network) we are creating a platform for the production of novel, biomaterials. You can read about our latest work Here!
Prolonged exposure of chemotherapeutic agents to tumour cells over several cell cycles has been found to be more effective for the treatment of cancer than a short burst of chemotherapeutic agents. We are investigating a composite system involving liposomes with encapsulated nano-hydrogel embedded with nanobubblestermed ‘lipogel’, which will provide a drug transport mechanism with an ultrasound triggered release system. This system mimics the ability of natural cells to take advantage of properties from both the lipid bilayer and nano-hydrogel to create a multifunctional system. The lipid bilayer aims to protect the hydrogel from degradation in the bloodstream, as well as reducing the side effects of toxic drugs on healthy cells by targeting to the region of interest. The presence of a drug loaded gel within the liposome core aims to further control the speed that the drug molecules are released.