Synthesis of Turn-Helix-Type N-Terminal Prolyl Peptide Catalyst

Nature has not only selected and evolved numerous and diverse chemical and molecular building blocks, but also defined structural motifs through billions of years of molecular selection and evolution. These basic building blocks possess the capacities to form complex active, specific functional motifs and sophisticate nanomaschines. Molecular self-assembly is the spontaneous association of individual components into well-organized structures with a fine-tuned balance between numerous noncovalent weak interactions. The elucidation of natural materials design principles, can shape the synthesis of engineered materials. This is of interest because most biological materials are produced in moderate conditions, i.e. in aqueous solution at ambient temperature, without high energy input or extreme pH. Additionally, the starting material is often abundantly available and the product mostly degradable. Therefore, a translation of natural processes to materials engineering would yield highly sustainable and functional materials. Enzymes are biogenic catalysts that enable the vital activity of organisms.