2007

The Feldheim group is working at the interface between molecular and cell biology and materials chemistry. Our primary objective is to study the chemical interactions between biomolecules (e.g., peptides, nucleic acids, proteins) and colloidal solids (e.g., 1 nm – 20 nm diameter metal nanoparticles). These studies are helping us formulate a deeper fundamental understanding of the mechanisms by which biomolecules perform the extraordinary range of chemistries they do, including control of crystal nucleation and growth, nerve cell proliferation, and viral entry into cells. This knowledge will in turn enable the synthesis of novel nanostructures for applications ranging from disease diagnosis and treatment to nanoscale electronics and alternative energy.