Tailored lignin-protein heteroconjugates for bionanomaterial applications

Bioindustry produces various side-streams such as lignin and proteins. Thus technologies for formation of stabile lignin nanodispersions using proteins as modifier, is a research goal that has world-wide significance for production of novel nanobiomaterials such as medical adhesives for biological tissues. Tailored lignin-protein heteroconjugates may be exploited also in textiles and cosmetics as well to improve e.g. antioxidative, -microbial and hydrophobic properties of the products. Small recombinant protein such as cellulose binding domain of cellulase will be used as biomimetic model to tailor lignin-protein heteroconjugates via self-assembling. Oxidative enzymes, protein engineering and chemical synthesis will be exploited to enhance interaction between proteins and lignin surface e.g. via introducing functionalities common in mussel mimetic glues. Interactions will be studied on molecular and functional group level using the state-of the art spectroscopic and microscopic techniques including rheological measurements. When protein stabilized lignin nanoparticles are applied in wounds and cross-linked by enzymatic means, protein gel containing softened lignin particles is formed and covalently linked to tissues, filling the wounds and ensuring tight water resistant sealing. Due to positive healthy effects of lignin wound healing will be fastened as viral and inflammatory risks are reduced.