Laboratory of Chemistry of Biomimetic Functional Structures

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Team leader: prof. dr hab. Sławomir Sęk

Team leader’s e-mail address: slasek@chem.uw.edu.pl

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Brief description of the research topic:

The research conducted by the ChemBioFuN Lab focuses on bioelectrochemistry, surface physicochemistry, and functional biomimetic systems. The team specializes in the construction and analysis of biomimetic lipid membranes, which serve as model systems for studying interactions with peptides and lipopeptides exhibiting potential antibiotic activity. The goal of these studies is to understand the mechanisms of action of such compounds and their selectivity toward different types of biological membranes. An important area of the group’s work also involves systems incorporating membrane proteins that function as ion channels. These studies include both mechanistic analyses of ion transport through model membranes and the development of bioinspired sensors based on selective ion conductivity. Additionally, the ChemBioFuN Lab investigates long-range electron transport through peptides and peptidomimetics, which is relevant both for understanding biological processes and for the development of molecular electronics and biosensors. In this context, the group designs and characterizes new nanostructured biomaterials, such as helical peptides and peptidomimetics, capable of functioning as molecular wires, diodes, or switches. The team utilizes advanced surface techniques, including atomic force microscopy (AFM), attenuated total reflection surface-enhanced infrared absorption spectroscopy (ATR-SEIRAS), electrochemistry, quartz crystal microbalance, and the Langmuir trough. The group actively collaborates with national and international research teams, carrying out interdisciplinary projects at the intersection of chemistry, biology, and nanotechnology.