Abstract

Virus coat proteins of small isometric plant viruses readily assemble into symmetric, icosahedral cages encapsulating noncognate cargo, provided the cargo meets a minimal set of chemical and physical requirements. While this capability has been intensely explored for certain virus-enabled nanotechnologies, additional applications require lower symmetry than that of an icosahedron. Here, we show that the coat proteins of an icosahedral virus can efficiently assemble around metal nanorods into spherocylindrical closed shells with hexagonally close-packed bodies and icosahedral caps. Comparison of chiral angles and packing defects observed by in situ atomic force microscopy with those obtained from molecular dynamics models offers insight into the mechanism of growth, and the influence of stresses associated with intrinsic curvature and assembly pathways. - Copyright © 2018 American Chemical Society

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Dragnea Research is at the forefront of multidisciplinary innovation, exploring the intersection of nanoscale optics, quantum photonics, physical virology, and bio-architected hybrid materials with 3D nanoscale order. Their latest publications highlight groundbreaking advancements in fields such as self-assembly, optics and spectroscopy, and the physical manipulation of virus-like particles (VLPs) for chemical imaging and surface modifications. Drawing from their expertise in using near-field scanning techniques and laser-induced effects, these works showcase how nanoscale phenomena can be harnessed for applications in material science, virology, and beyond. The accompanying visual mosaic underscores the diverse range of their research, from probing molecular dynamics to the development of 3D-ordered structures, all united by a commitment to pushing the boundaries of applied and theoretical science.