Synthesis and Self-Assembly of Organoclay-Wrapped Biomolecules

Gift wrapped: Biomolecules can be enveloped within an ultrathin shell of an aminopropyl-functionalized magnesium (organo)phyllosilicate to produce aqueous dispersions of discrete protein–inorganic nanoparticles. Similar procedures but with organoclay oligomers that have pendent long-chain hydrophobic moieties result in self-assembly of the protein–inorganic nanoparticles into higher-order superstructures (see picture). Supporting information for this article is available on the WWW under http://www.wiley-vch.de/contents/jc_2002/2004/z53868_s.pdf or from the author. Please note: The publisher is not responsible for the content or functionality of any supporting information supplied by the authors. Any queries (other than missing content) should be directed to the corresponding author for the article.