Inulin nanostructures: The sweet-spot of carbohydrate self-assembly
Arnon, Z. A.; Grabarics, M.; Kreiser, T.; Raveh, A.; Pagel, K.; Gazit, E.
Show abstract
Supramolecular architecture formation by the self-assembly of proteins and nucleic acids is well studied. Yet, the spontaneous organization of oligosaccharides, the most common polymers in nature, is less explored. Here, using inulin as a model, we identify the "sweet spot" length for oligosaccharide assembly. Inulin forms discrete spheres in a concentration-dependent manner. Size-based fractionation displayed markedly different aggregation morphologies. Based on these findings, we believe that carbohydrates could become an important source for novel self-assembling materials.
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