Biomineralization Study of Otoconia by Atomic Force Microscopy
EMSL Project ID
48113
Abstract
In this proposal, we are going to use ex situ and in situ atomic force microscopy to investigate the role of four key key proteins in the formation of otoconia. We will observe adsorption and self-assembly of these proteins on mica surfaces and their role in directing mineralization of calcium carbonate. From measurements of the calcite nucleation rate as a function of supersaturation, we will determine the interfacial energies that control the thermodynamic barriers to nucleation. From observations of the location of nucleation on the protein matrices, we will determine whether there are preferential sites for nucleation. We will also perform in situ studies of the effects of these proteins on the growth of atomic steps on calcite surfaces, in order to obtain insight into their interactions with the steps and the resulting control on crystal morphology. In future work, we will use measurements of the interaction force between protein functionalized tips and calcite surfaces to determine the binding free energies and relate them to the thermodynamic barrier to calcite nucleation on these matrices.
Project Details
Start Date
2013-07-08
End Date
2013-09-30
Status
Closed
Released Data Link
Team
Principal Investigator
Team Members