Laboratory of Bionanostructures

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Team leader: prof. dr hab. Reneta Bilewicz

Team leader’s e-mail address:  bilewicz@chem.uw.edu.pl, r.bilewicz@uw.edu.pl

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Brief description of the research topic:

In the Laboratory of Bionanostructures we focus on:

1. Exploring molecular self-assembly, Langmuir-Blodgett films, and monolayer-protected metal nanoparticles and clusters for applications in electrocatalysis, enzymatic bioelectrocatalysis and molecular recognition at interfaces. We design new types of electrode-supported films and nanostructures for the catalytic reduction of common gases (O2, CO2) and the oxidation of small molecules such as glucose, H2O2 or NADPH. We characterize the surfaces using a range of electrochemical methods and scanning microscopies, and we describe electron transfer processes in these supramolecular and biomolecular films. The applications include enzymatic fuel cells and bioelectrochemical sensing.
2. We apply electroanalytical and surface analytical methods for the studies of lipid mono- and bilayers and liquid-crystalline mesophases as biomimetics of biological membranes. Using various physico-chemical methods we follow the accommodation and redox-behavior of membrane-immobilized proteins, penetration of drugs, and interactions with pollutants and nanoparticles.
3. We investigate lipid liquid-crystalline nanoparticles and liposomes as potential carriers of drugs, peptides and membrane proteins. Studies of lipid nanoparticles as drug delivery vehicles include analyzing their sustainability and controlled drug release by spectroscopy and electrochemical methods.
4. The research focuses on developing biomimetic models of inflamed small intestinal cell membranes and analyzing the effects of anti-inflammatory drugs (JAK inhibitors and naltrexone), both separately and in combination, on their properties. It also involves the use of drug carriers (liposomes, cubosomes) to improve treatment efficacy and reduce side effects.