A Korean research team found a three-dimensional structure of a fullerene-protein (COP) composite by using a self-assembly protein.

On June 6^th, Dr. Yongho Kim, a professor at Sungkyungwan University, announced that he made a fullerene-protein (COP) composite crystallize by using a ‘de novo protein design’ which created a protein with a new structure that has not existed before.

This composite shows that it is possible for fullerene to be a regular arrangement with a self-assembled protein and can change into conductive crystal.  Fullerene is a ball-shaped molecule composed of over 60 strongly connected carbon atoms.  It is a representative nanomaterial that has many uses such as lubricants, catalysts for industrial use, and medical supplies.  It can also be used to aid in treatment of diseases like Alzheimer’s as well as in medical parts related to free radicals.  However, there is difficulty using it because it does not dissolve into water well and there is a self-gathering phenomenon.

Mr. Kim’s team discovered a high-resolution three-dimensional fullerene-protein (COP) composite with X-ray crystallography that indicates molecule-level structure for the first time in the world.  This technique analyzes an X-ray diffraction pattern of protein crystals to reveal high-resolution three-dimensional structures at the molecular level with a calculation of phase information and an electron-density map.

Prof. Kim said, “I suggested the first model which arranges fullerene regularly into a protein design.  It is expected to be used in an important technique to develop new conductive materials based on protein and novel biomaterial.”

The results of the study were published in Nature Communications along with Nature Scientific Journal’s online edition on April 27^th.