IASST scientists develop ultrathin hetero-protein film

Team L&M

A research group from the physical sciences division of Institute of Advanced Study in Science and Technology (IASST), Guwahati, an autonomous institute under the Department of Science and Technology, has developed ultrathin monolayer protein films consisting of two globular proteins: bovine serum albumin (BSA) and lysozyme (Lys).

These films have excellent thermal, mechanical and pH stability which can pave the way for expanding its application in biomedical and food packaging industries. They are also more soft and flexible than the other films.

This research work was led by Dr Sarathi Kundu, Associate Professor, along with Raktim J Sarmah, SRF, a PhD. Student.

Films of such protein complex of BSA and Lys can be useful for fabricating highly stable biodegradable thin films of different protein complexes for expanding its applications in the area of thin-film technology. Diverse physicochemical methods such as parameter alteration or incorporation of different fatty acids or polyol moieties (glycerol, starch, gelatin, etc.) into this protein complex can make the film free standing for diverse applications.

The research work has been published in the journal of Food Hydrocolloids, Elsevier publishers.