The supramolecular chemistry of protein cages and viruses

Abstract

There are many examples of protein cages in nature, from the outer capsid shells of viruses that protect their genetic material, to simple organelle-like structures in bacteria that house enzymes within their interior. This Account serves to introduce the world of protein cages to a chemical audience, and highlight the many similarities to concepts from supramolecular chemistry, revealing how a knowledge base in chemistry can provide the foundation for valuable insights into fundamental questions and biomolecular engineering challenges in the field.

Celebrating RACI and Academy of Science awards 2022–23

“…Many of the molecular self-assembly properties and host-guest behaviours that apply to classic supramolecular systems also operate at the scale of capsid formation. 2 George A. Koutsantonis (The University of Western Australia), the Leighton Medallist, and coworkers Jago and Gaschk contribute a tutorial Primer Review on the history and fundamentals of molecular photochromism, i.e. molecules that reversibly change colour upon exposure to light.…”