Peptide Hydrogel Molecular Dynamics

Research Overview

As an Undergraduate Research Assistant in the Letteri & Lampe Labs, I conduct molecular dynamics simulations to investigate gelation patterns of peptide hydrogels. This computational research focuses on understanding how peptides self-assemble and form hydrogel networks.

Research Focus

• Molecular Dynamics Simulations: Using computational methods to model peptide behavior
• Gelation Pattern Analysis: Investigating how peptides form hydrogel structures
• Salt Concentration Effects: Studying how different salt concentrations affect peptide assembly
• CNS Applications: Analyzing potential treatments for central nervous system disorders

Research Presentation

I presented my year-long research on salt concentration effects in peptide hydrogels at UVA's Undergraduate Research Symposium via poster session, sharing findings about how salt-driven assembly affects peptide hydrogel formation.

Presenting research on "Capturing Salt-Driven Assembly of Peptides using Molecular Simulations" at UVA's Undergraduate Research Symposium

Technical Methods

• Simulation Software: VMD, NAMD for molecular dynamics simulations
• Analysis: Experimental data analysis to determine optimal treatments
• Applications: Biomaterial design for CNS disorder treatments

Impact

This research contributes to the development of biomaterials that could potentially be used in treating central nervous system disorders. By understanding how peptides self-assemble into hydrogels, we can design better materials for medical applications.