Peptide networks

Abstract

Methods of modulating interfacial characteristics in a self-assembled, force-transmitting peptide network at a fluid-fluid interface are disclosed. The methods involve exposing a peptide capable of participating in a self-assembled, force-transmitting peptide network, either before or after it interacts with other peptides to form the peptide network to a stimulus that alters the chemical and/or physical properties of the peptide. Use of such methods in applications such as emulsions and foams are also disclosed.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . A peptide selected from the group consisting of: 
       
         
           
                 
                 
               
                     
                   SEQ ID NO: 2 
                 
                     
                   Ac-MKQLADSLHQLARQVSRLEHA-CONH 2 ; 
                 
                     
                     
                 
                     
                   SEQ ID NO: 4 
                 
                     
                   Ac-MKELADSLMQLARQVDRLESA-CONH 2 ; 
                 
                     
                     
                 
                     
                   SEQ ID NO: 5 
                 
                     
                   Ac-MKQLADSLHQLAHQVSHLEHA-CONH 2 ; 
                 
                     
                     
                 
                     
                   SEQ ID NO: 6 
                 
                     
                   Ac-PHFRFSFSP-CONH 2 ; 
                 
                     
                     
                 
                     
                   SEQ ID NO: 7 
                 
                     
                   Ac-PHFSFSFSP-CONH 2 ; 
                 
                     
                     
                 
                     
                   SEQ ID NO: 8 
                 
                     
                   Ac-PSFRFSFSP-CONH 2 ; 
                 
                     
                     
                 
                     
                   SEQ ID NO: 11 
                 
                     
                   Ac-PHFHFSFSP-CONH 2 ; 
                 
                     
                     
                 
                     
                   SEQ ID NO: 12 
                 
                     
                   Ac-PHFSFHFSP-CONH 2 ; 
                 
                     
                   and 
                 
                     
                     
                 
                     
                   SEQ ID NO: 13 
                 
                     
                   Ac-MKQLADSLHQLAHKVSHLEHA-CONH 2 .