Peptide Biopolymer Conjugates as hybrid biomaterials

Our aim is to develop a new class of hybrid biomaterials by grafting peptides onto biopolymers in order to generate a novel generation of electrodes for medical and therapeutic applications.

In order to address this aim, our novel biomaterial will be provided with conductive properties, offer adjustable flexibility and have unique adhesive properties. Thus addressing the serious limitations of current electrodes in respect to their mechanical rigidity, corrosiveness and skin irritability.

Our peptides will contain derma-compatible units and their conjugation will be performed photochemically following selective spotting onto biopolymer films; conductivity and adhesion will be measured using micro-current techniques and atomic force microscopy, respectively. Our novel class of biomaterials will be of interest for many medical and therapeutic applications, including stimulation of nerve growth and pain relief.