[Progress in study of self-assembling peptides]

Abstract

Self-assembly of peptides is ubiquitous in the body of creatures. The molecules of peptides combine with each other to form proteins with different functions through self-assembly. The formation of a specific conformation of one type of protein is owing to the self-assembly of its compositive amino acids. So, researchers can design self-assembly of peptides at the molecular level and can control its formation and configuration. It has the potential for application in the preparation of new medicines and biomaterials. In recent years, self-assembling peptides have been increasingly high-lighted and used to simulate the function of natural biomolecules, to synthesize peptide-medicine, and to serve as the carriers of medicine.