The ability to manipulate protein molecules to form unique assemblies is the basis of this study. Isolating proteins by anchoring them to lipid layers at air-water interfaces provides a means to effect their ordering in two dimensions. Fundamental studies of the process of two-dimensional protein crystallization is one goal of this study. Another is to achieve the controlled growth of three-dimensional protein arrays and crystals. Through a careful choice of materials and conditions, three-dimensional protein arrays are to be assembled by deploying additional ordered layers on a two-dimensional protein crystal via protein-ligand or protein-protein interactions. Such crystals are a representation of the more general phenomenon of biomolecular self-organization. Ultimately, these novel phases are to form the basis for developments in ordered thin films and layered structures with potential applications in such diverse areas as sensor technology, medical diagnostics and optical and electronic devices.
