Layer-by-layer assembled protein/polymer hybrid films: nanoconstruction via specific recognition

Abstract In the present study it is shown that streptavidin-containing multilayer films with varying numbers of polyelectrolyte spacer layers can be fabricated reproducibly using optimized deposition conditions. Direct alternation of streptavidin and PLB leads to multilayer systems with an average streptavidin thickness of 5.3 nm which is in good agreement with the dimensions of the protein. When the streptavidin layers are spacered by more polyelectrolyte layers the distance between the protein sheets is increased up to e.g. 6.5 nm in the case of (PLB/PSS/PAH/PSS/PLB) as spacer layer. X-ray reflectivity reveals that streptavidin increases the surface roughness of the films probably due to …