The design of a molecular assembly line based on biological molecules
Name
53484093-MIT.pdf
Description
Full printable version
Size
6.41 MB
Format
Adobe PDF
Checksum (MD5)
63a3e46d96cf15656eb2e5817d457079
Author(s)
Chow, Brian, 1978-
Advisor(s)
Joseph M. Jacobson.
Date Issued
2003
Publisher
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Abstract
A general scheme towards a "molecular assembly line" based on biological molecules is proposed, as well as its potential uses as a universal polymer scaffold in programmed assembly and molecular electronics. It is based on the principles of the biological molecules polyketide synthase and kinesin, and in some embodiments, may employ biomolecules like DNA as components of the system. The scheme entails the construction of a polymeric chain that moves a shuttle along the chain by controlling the interactions between the shuttle and individual monomer units using external inputs. The experimental work here particularly focuses on the design and synthesis of the monomer units and shuttles, as well as the mechanisms of control over the monomer/shuttle interactions that are required to construct the proposed polymer systems. Two approaches are explored, the first of which utilizes radio-frequency magnetic fields to selectively dehybridize DNA by coupling RF to covalently attached nanoparticle antennae. The second approach utilizes wavelength selective photocleavage of carbonyl bonds to control the equilibrium of a Michael reaction, and will demonstrate how one can construct a purely synthetic analogue of a polyketide synthase.
Description
Thesis (S.M.)--Massachusetts Institute of Technology, School of Architecture and Planning, Program in Media Arts and Sciences, 2003.
Includes bibliographical references (leaves 78-83).
Subjects
Architecture. Program In Media Arts and Sciences.
MIT Department
Program in Media Arts and Sciences (Massachusetts Institute of Technology)
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