Self-strengthening biphasic nanoparticle assemblies with intrinsic catch bonds

Kerim C. Dansuk and Sinan Keten ()
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Kerim C. Dansuk: Northwestern University
Sinan Keten: Northwestern University

Nature Communications, 2021, vol. 12, issue 1, 1-8

Abstract: Abstract Protein–ligand complexes with catch bonds exhibit prolonged lifetimes when subject to tensile force, which is a desirable yet elusive attribute for man-made nanoparticle interfaces and assemblies. Most designs proposed so far rely on macromolecular linkers with complicated folds rather than particles exhibiting simple dynamic shapes. Here, we establish a scissor-type X-shaped particle design for achieving intrinsic catch bonding ability with tunable force-enhanced lifetimes under thermal excitations. Molecular dynamics simulations are carried out to illustrate equilibrium self-assembly and force-enhanced bond lifetime of dimers and fibers facilitated by secondary interactions that form under tensile force. The non-monotonic force dependence of the fiber breaking kinetics is well-estimated by an analytical model. Our design concepts for shape-changing particles illuminates a path towards novel nanoparticle or colloidal assemblies that have the passive ability to tune the strength of their interfaces with applied force, setting the stage for self-assembling materials with novel mechanical functions and rheological properties.

Date: 2021
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:nat:natcom:v:12:y:2021:i:1:d:10.1038_s41467-020-20344-4

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DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-20344-4

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