Novel barnacle-inspired adhesives for underwater applications
This project produces bacteria of bioadhesive proteins from barnacles.
Project leader
Professor Tony Clare
Dates
October 2015 to September 2019
Project staff
Dr Nick Aldred
Sponsors
Defence Science and Technology Laboratory DSTL (Porton Down)
Description
This project centres on production by bacteria of bioadhesive proteins from barnacles. It does this using synthetic biology-driven approaches.
Extensive previous studies have identified two adhesives from barnacle larvae. One temporary the other permanent. They are amenable to further development.
Results relate to the composition and mechanism of action of these multi-component systems.
They inspire simplified commercial products and provide proxy materials for testing antifouling coatings.