Reversed
micelles extraction
Liquid-liquid extraction using
reverse micelles solutions (RMS) as solvents have gained much attention as a method for
separation and purification of biological products, due to potential application as a
continuos, low-cost, large-scale operation. This project is aimed at understanding the
relations between the macroscopic and microscopic properties of RMS, with the further aim
of using this knowledge to improve the process.
Bioseparations
utilizing “smart” polymers
Due to recent advances in polymer
physics and chemistry, it is now possible to design and synthesize “smart”
polymers whose physical properties can be regulated by factors such as temperature, pH and
ionic strength. We are studying the capture and release of target biomolecules by
“smart” polymers and exploring possibilities of using such polymers in
bioseparation processes.
Tailored biomimetic
systems based on peptide-amphiphiles
Peptide-amphiphiles are novel surfactant-like
molecules bearing biologically active peptide head-groups. Their modular design allows
construction of biomimetic models, which are tailored to meet specific needs. In
collaboration with Prof. Matthew Tirrell from the University of California at Santa
Barbara, we are studying various types of peptide-amphiphiles. We are applying a wide
range of experimental methods to investigate the relationships between the molecular
architecture, peptide orientations, self-assembly properties and biological performance.
Crystallization
behavior of prebiotic resistant starch
An observation made almost two decades ago showed
that part of the dietary starch is resistant to enzymatic digestion in the human
intestine. A fraction of this resistant starch (RS), called resistant starch type III (RS
III), is fermented by the microbial flora in the colon, and several studies indicate that
it may have health benefits such as modifying lipid metabolism and reducing the risk of
colon cancer. In collaboration with Dr. Eyal Shimoni and Dr. Moshe Verman from the Food
Engineering and Biotechnology Department at the Technion, we are studying the heat-induced
production of RS III, its crystal polymorph structure and its lamella arrangement.
Algal
Bioadhesives
Sessile marine organisms evolve
strong underwater adhesives, which retain attached under tensional conditions, comparable
to surgical environment. Algae Bioadhasives (AB) could serve as tissue adhesives and offer
a safe and efficient alternative to traditional wound closure devices such as stutters and
staples. In collaboration with Prof. A. Marmur from our Department and sever other groups
from Europe and the US, we are studying the production, purification, and properties of AB
and their potential marine, industrial, and mainly medical application. Our group is
focusing on understanding the relationships between the wetting properties, the
physico-chemical properties, and the microstructure of AB films.
