Exploring the self-assembly of cyclic peptides into multidimensional nanostructures

Abstract

Self-assembly is a fundamental process whereby individual molecules spontaneously associate into well-defined structures. Nature employs self-assembly to create complex architectures with remarkable structural and functional precision. This natural sophistication has inspired scientists to rationally design synthetic analogues for the fabrication of structures and functions not evolved in nature. Despite important developments in this field, the design of synthetic molecules with hierarchical levels of self-assembly remains a challenging task. In this doctoral thesis, synthetic cyclic peptides are explored as customizable building blocks for the hierarchical self-assembly of multidimensional nanostructures. Key design principles are presented to direct hierarchical stages of selfassembly by rational molecular design.