Biomimetics signaling

One of the ideas of utilizing hybrid frameworks for biomimetic signaling is inspired by the way nature deals with such issues in particular, how proteins bind substrates. 

In summary, these recently obtained results demonstrate that certain amphi-pathic peptoid sequences designed to mimic both the helical structure and approximate length of magainin helices are also capable of selective and biomimetic antibacterial activity. These antibacterial peptoids are helical in both aqueous buffer and in the presence of lipid vesicles. Ineffective (non-antibacterial) peptoids exhibit weak, random coil-like CD, with no spectral intensification in the presence of lipid vesicles. Selective peptoids exhibit stronger CD signals in bacterial-mimetic vesicles than in mammalian-mimetic vesicles. Non-selective peptoids exhibit intensely helical CD in both types of vesicles. 

The functions of phenylpropanoid derivatives are as diverse as their structural variations. Phenylpropanoids serve as phytoalexins, UV protectants, insect repellents, flower pigments, and signal molecules for plant-microbe interactions. They also function as polymeric constituents of support and surface structures such as lignins and suberins [1]. Therefore, biosynthesis of phenylpropanoids has received much interest in relation to these functions. In addition, the biosynthesis of these compounds has been intensively studied because they are often chiral, and naturally occurring samples of these compounds are usually optically active. Elucidation of these enantioselective mechanisms may contribute to the development of novel biomimetic systems for enantioselective organic synthesis. 

In spite of all their advantages, sensitivity and selectivity, bio-sensors, however, do possess disadvantages connected with thermal and timely instability, high cost of bio-receptors and the need to add substrates in the solution under analysis as signal-generating substances. Some attempts to synthesize and use as receptors chemical organic catalytic systems, which will ensure the required selectivity and response rate, have become the basis for developing enzyme-free sensors [11], or biomimetic sensors. 

Figure 19.3 Schematic model of biomimetic material M3 for amine signaling. Changes in color are due to the reaction between the pyrylium ring and the primary amine. Short amines are too hydrophilic and do not enter into the hydrophobic pores, whereas long-chain amines tend to clog in the pore openings.

---