Peptide-based spherulitic films—formation and properties

Peptide nanotube-based spherulitic films are a recently discovered phenomenon, which was demonstrated in the case of the self-assembled diphenylalanine peptide nanotubes. Here we show that the film-formation method can be implemented with other peptides. We also demonstrate that a critical physical parameter, an elevated level of environmental hydration, is required for film growth. A possible formation mechanism is suggested. The optical, morphological and mechanical properties of these films are characterized and are found to be substantially different from those of non-spherulitic deposits.

Graphical abstractSpherulitic films from peptide nanotube forming peptides can be induced to form on flat solid surfaces. This process requires elevated levels of environmental humidity. The image shows a characteristics Maltese cross pattern observed in spherulites viewed using polarized-light microscopy.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload high-quality image (106 K)Download as PowerPoint slide