Upcoming Events
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Feb
24
Molecular Biology and Biochemistry Work in Progress Talk: Bethlehem Abebe (Dr. S. Chou Lab) 12:00pm
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Feb
25
Molecular Biology and Biochemistry Work in Progress Talk: Dillon Vannest (Dr. M. Caimano Lab) 12:00pm
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Feb
25
MCB Seminar Series: Dr. Seth Fraden 3:30pm
MCB Seminar Series: Dr. Seth Fraden
Tuesday, February 25th, 2025
03:30 PM
BPB 130
Dr. Seth Fraden
Professor of physics, Brandeis University
Host: Carol TeschkeSymmetry-Guided Self-Assembly of DNA Origami and Proteins
We present a modular approach to synthetic self-assembly, using DNA and protein design to construct finite-sized nanostructures with a minimal number of unique monomers. Exploiting symmetry, we successfully assembled large icosahedral shells (100–1000 nm), inspired by Caspar and Klug’s 1962 virus structure theory. DNA origami enabled precise building block design, allowing us to control assembly pathways, kinetics, and yield. Cryo-EM validation and computational modeling revealed key factors governing self-assembly efficiency. These DNA-based capsids serve as an ideal realization of patchy particles whose geometry and interactions can be designed with sub-nanometer and kT precision. Expanding beyond icosahedra, we explored cylindrical and negatively curved surfaces. Now, leveraging AI-driven structure-based tools (Chroma, ESMfold, Boltz-1, AlphaFold3), we are testing whether these DNA origami principles apply to de novo protein design, pushing the frontiers of bioinspired materials engineering.
About Dr. Fraden:
Fraden is a professor of physics and co-interim chair of Engineering at Brandeis University, Waltham, MA. He served as director of the Bioinspired Soft Materials Research Science and Engineering Center (MRSEC) at Brandeis University from 2012 - 2024. Fraden received the 2008 Innovation Prize of the International Organization of Biological Crystallization for the development of microfluidic devices for high throughput protein crystallization. In 2020, Fraden was elected a Fellow of the American Physical Society for leadership in experimental soft matter physics. Fraden’s research focus is Bioinspired Soft Matter with a focus on (a) self-assembly in biomaterials with applications in antiviral therapy and drug delivery, (b) active matter with applications in soft robotics, (c) non-linear chemical dynamics and (d) the development of microfluidics for biotechnology with applications in protein crystallization.
Publications:
Economical routes to size-specific assembly of self-closing structures
Hierarchical assembly is more robust than egalitarian assembly in synthetic capsids
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Feb
27
GO:MCB & SASP Bingo Night 5:00pm
GO:MCB & SASP Bingo Night
Thursday, February 27th, 2025
05:00 PM - 07:00 PM
ESB 121
GO:MCB’s first event of 2025— BINGO night! In collaboration with the Student Association of School Psychologists (SASP), GO:MCB is hosting this event on February 27th.This joint celebration is the perfect opportunity to meet fellow graduate students from various fields, share ideas, and gain new perspectives on research. Enjoy delicious snacks, the thrill of friendly competition, and the chance to win some great prizes—all while building connections and having fun. Don’t miss out on a chance to make new friends and then beat them at Bingo.If you’re interested in attending, please take a moment to fill out this short form by February 14th. Additionally, as this is a potluck event, we welcome you to bring a dish to share with everyone. -
Feb
28
MCB Reserch in Progress: John Briseno 12:20pm
MCB Reserch in Progress: John Briseno
Friday, February 28th, 2025
12:20 PM
BPB 131
John Briseno
Nyholm Lab