Biomimetic Material Solutions for the Stabilization of Labile Reagents

ABSTRACT: A platform (PHA-fuse) for the stabilization of diagnostic and therapeutic reagents will be established based upon the polymer, polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA). Fusions of a target molecule to PHA synthase, the enzyme responsible for PHA synthesis, will be constructed and used to catalyze the synthesis of PHA granules. These PHA granules will help stabilize the fused target molecules and eliminate the need for cold storage. The PHA-fuse platform will be tested using a therapeutic enzyme, organophosphorus hydrolase (OPH) which is potentially valuable treatment for exposure to chemical warfare agents. In addition, an antimicrobial peptide will be tested using the PHA-fuse platform and the stability of this target along with OPH will be evaluated over time at 40oF. The PHA-fuse will be capable of stabilizing a wide array of different target molecules and will be amenable to production using a yeast host system.; BENEFIT: The PHA-fuse platform will be amenable to a wide array of target molecules through fusion to a protein that will generate a hydrophobic granule. The system will permit the stabilization and immobilization of catalysts and small molecules. The granule will be biodegradable and able to be used for diagnostic and therapeutic applications.