SELF ASSEMBLING, STIMULI RESPONSIVE, SURFACTANT-LIKE CYCLIC AMPHIPHILIC PEPTIDES

Small cationic and anionic amphiphilic cyclic peptides have been studied by ab initio Hartree Fock molecular orbital calculations coupled with intermolecular interaction calculations. The role of these amphiphilic compounds in removing heavy metal ion impurity has been studied at the molecular level. Conformational and electrostatic factors governing spontaneous self assemblage of these compounds leading to film formation have been discussed at length. Forces prevalent at film are decisive towards assembly/disassembly triggered by auto response to environmental changes like pH, concentration. This study will aid in the design of new nanomaterials with desired auto-responsive properties and desired mechanical strength and flexibility in film.