Our research in genetically encoded biomaterials focuses on intrinsically disordered proteins (IDPs). One class – elastin-like polypeptides (ELPs) – are polymers of a Val-Pro-Gly-Xaa-Gly motif found in tropoelastin that display a tunable lower critical solution temperature (LCST). Because of their tunable phase behavior and minimal immunogenicity, ELPs are attractive materials for a wide variety of biomedical applications; additionally, their recombinant synthesis and genetically encoded design enables complete control over its its structure and function.

Our lab is interested in leveraging ELPs across a wide range of drug delivery and tissue engineering applications. In the past, we have engineered ELPs as soluble macromolecular carriers, self-assembled nanoparticles, crosslinked microparticles, and coacervated depots. Previous applications include, but are not limited to, protein purification tags, nanoparticles for anticancer drug delivery, injectable depots for sustained delivery of biologics, partially ordered polypeptide scaffolds for tissue repair, and formation of synthetic biomolecular condensates. Find a few of our recent publications below.