Research Projects

Polymeric materials, including plastics, are primarily composed of linear polymers, whose properties are significantly shaped by their topology. Recently, polycatenanes, mechanically interlinked polymer chains, have gained attention for their remarkable rheological, mechanical, and thermal properties. These interlocked ring networks, called Olympic gels, exhibit unique features such as muscle-like behavior and reconfigurable topologies. To fully harness the potential of these networks, a model system with precise control over molecular topology is essential. Nature presents such an ideal system in kinetoplasts. Kinetoplast DNA (kDNA) from trypanosomatid Crithidia fasciculata is a natural Olympic gel wherein approximately 5000 minicircles (∼2.5 kbp) and 25 maxicircles (∼40 kbp) are topologically interlocked in a quasi-2D plane. This project aims to investigate the dynamics and rheological behavior of topologically complex polymers using single-molecule DNA experiments, theoretical modeling, and simulations. Circular DNA and kDNA will serve as model systems due to their ease of visualization, manipulation, and biological relevance. Fluorescence microscopy in conjunction with nano and microfluidic devices will enable the controlled manipulation of single molecules within specific geometries, while molecular dynamics simulations will offer deeper insights, overcoming the spatiotemporal limitations of microscopy. Key factors such as catenation valency and the effects of relaxed versus supercoiled states will be explored to investigate a wide range of polymeric material properties. The unique interlocked structure of kDNA allows for high conformational flexibility, resulting in properties like tunable Young’s modulus and enhanced shock absorption. This research will deepen the fundamental understanding of 2D polymers and Olympic gels while providing insights that will guide the design of advanced polymeric materials. Additionally, the project will provide valuable training for PhD and master’s students, preparing them for advanced careers in both academia and industry by equipping them with skills at the intersection of polymer physics, molecular biology, and nanotechnology.