Cross Bridging Proteins in Nature and their Utilization in Bio- and Nanotechnology
- 1 February 2004
- journal article
- review article
- Published by Bentham Science Publishers Ltd. in Current Protein & Peptide Science
- Vol. 5 (1) , 33-49
- https://doi.org/10.2174/1389203043486919
Abstract
Abstract: Cross-linking and cross-bridging are highly versatile methods of creating composite protein structures with desired mechanical properties such as deformation endurance, elasticity, extensibility, and stability under intensive and repetitive sheering forces. Cross-linking and crossbridging are distinguished by the bonds that hold the structural components together. Cross-linking implies a covalent association, whereas cross-bridging depends on biological recognition, in which hydrogen bonding, ionic, and hydrophobic interactions predominate. Cross-bridged structures are found in all living systems. Cytoskeletal interaction, cell invasion by pathogens, fertilization, and cellulosomal degradation of cellulose are all examples of biological processes in which cross-bridging proteins play a key role. This article will review the different types of biological cross-bridging proteins that are known and discuss their emerging nano- and biotechnological applications.Keywords
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