Molecular Structure of Biological Materials (BE.442), Fall 2005

Abstract:: Basic molecular structural principles of biological materials. Molecular structures of various materials of biological origin, including collagen, silk, bone, protein adhesives, GFP, self-assembling peptides. Molecular design of new biological materials for nanotechnology, biocomputing and regenerative medicine. Graduate students are expected to complete additional coursework. This course, intended for both graduate and upper level undergraduate students, will focus on understanding of the basic molecular structural principles of biological materials. It will address the molecular structures of various materials of biological origin, such as several types of collagen, silk, spider silk, wool, hair, bones, shells, protein adhesives, GFP, and self-assembling peptides. It will also address molecular design of new biological materials applying the molecular structural principles. The long-term goal of this course is to teach molecular design of new biological materials for a broad range of applications. A brief history of biological materials and its future perspective as well as its impact to the society will also be discussed. Several experts will be invited to give guest lectures.

No Strings Attached

Paterson, New Jersey: America's Silk City

Abstract:: examines conditions that led to the famous 1913 strike in a city that produced nearly half the U.S.'s manufactured silk. Conflicts between labor and management increased in the U.S. during the early 20th century. In Paterson, on January 27, 1913, when Henry Doherty tried to extend a new four-loom system throughout his plant, 800 silk weavers walked out. More than 20,000 Paterson silk workers took part in the strike, which lasted over five months.

Read the Fine Print

Abstract:: This BioBulletin Web site takes a close look at spiders, the planet's number one carnivore. The site includes text, videos, photographs, and interviews with key scientists. The Introduction paints a picture of what life would be like on our planet without spiders. The Vital Spider takes a look at the variety and population of spiders in the world, their important contributions, and scientific attempts to create "biosilk."About Spiders is an in-depth look at everything from spider anatomy and feeding habitats to how they produce silk and venom. Hunting Spiders Down Under profiles the work of arachnologists in their favorite destination, Australia. Weird Spiders has photographs and profiles of 11 species of spiders.