Research Interest

1) Protein network formation mechanisms and applications

Representative Papers:

Chen, L., Remondetto G.E., Subirade M. (2006) Food protein-based materials as nutraceutical delivery systems, Trends Food Sci. Technol., 17, 272-283 (IF: 4.6, 194 citations).
Wang, Y.,  Chen*, L.  (2012) Fabrication and characterization of novel assembled prolamin protein nanofabrics with improved stability, mechanical property and release profile, J. Mater. Chem.,  22, 21592-21601 (IF:   6.6).
My first research interest has been revealing the molecular mechanisms implied in the formation of protein networks such as gels, films, and nanofibers. Using FTIR as a major tool, we have systematically examined  protein  structure  in  various  environmental  conditions.  We  have  demonstrated  how  pH, temperature, pressure and electric field can impact protein unfolding and interactions, and subsequently their  ability  to  aggregate,  and  further  agglomerate  into  superstructures.  The  correlation  of  these molecular events to protein matrix microstructure and macroscopic properties has allowed us to observe and understand what influences protein network functionalities such as mechanical properties, diffusion, and degradation. The generated knowledge has allowed us to develop a series of applications in food, nutrition, pharmaceutical and biomedical area.

2) Protein based networks for controlled delivery of bioactive molecules
Representative Papers:
Chen, L., Subirade, M. (2006) Alginate-whey protein granular microspheres as oral delivery vehicles for bioactive compounds, Biomaterials, 27, 4646-4654 (IF: 8.3, 51 citations).
Wang, Y., Chen*, L. (2014) Largely improved mechanical properties of electrospun prolamin protein fibers  reinforced  with  surface  modified  cellulose  nanowhiskers  and  alignment,  ACS  Appl. Mater. Interfaces, 6, 1709-1718. IF 5.9.
We have initiated this work in light of the growing interest within the food industry to develop novel functional  foods  that  may  have  health  benefits  or  reduce  the  risk  of  chronic  diseases.  Our  work demonstrated  that  protein  conformation  and  interactions  can  be  modulated  to  create  networks  of different swelling, diffusion and degradation properties in gut. This has enabled us to design a whole series of edible micro-/nano-particles, films and nanofibers that are capable of protecting labile bioactive molecules  during  storage  and  permit  the  safe  passage  of  nutraceuticals  past  the  stomach’s  harsh conditions for release and absorption in the intestine.

3) Plant protein modifications and structure-function relationships
Representative Paper:
Bamdad, F., Chen*, L.(2012) Antioxidant capacities of fractionated barley hordein hydrolysates in relation to peptide structures, Mol. Nutr. Food Res. 57, 493-503 (IF:   4.9).
Zhao, J., Tian, Z.,Chen*, L. (2010) Effects of deamidation on the molecular structures and functional properties of barley hordein, J. Agri. Food Chem., 58, 11448-11455 (IF: 3.1).
The third area of interest has focused on plant protein molecule modifications for new and improved functionalities, with emphasis on plant proteins derived from cereals and pulses which are the most  widely grown crops in western Canada. In recent work, we have developed novel antioxidant peptides, emulsion/foam stabilizers and gelling ingredients through plant protein structure modifications. We have
demonstrated  quantitatively  how  processing  conditions  impacted  the  protein/peptide  molecular structures - such as the modification degree, molecular weight, conformation, surface charge, and hydrophobicity-, and subsequently their properties. This research has not only allowed us to better reveal the molecular basis of plant protein/peptide functionalities, but also has permitted the precise control of plant protein structure to maximize performance.

4) Polysaccharide modifications and structure-function relationships
Representative Paper:
Chen, L.,  Tian,  Z., Du, Y.  (2004)  Synthesis  and pH  sensitivity of  carboxymethyl  chitosan  based polyampholyte  hydrogels  for  protein  carrier  matrices,  Biomaterials,  25,     3725-3732  (IF:  8.3,136citations).
Song, Y., Zhou, Y., Chen*, L. (2012) Wood cellulose-based polyelectrolyte complex nanoparticles as protein carriers, J. Mater. Chem., 22 (6), 2512 - 2519 (IF:   6.6).

The fourth interest has been developing new approaches for modification of polysaccharide, and the quantitative control of their molecular structures. As a consequence, a series of chitosan derivatives of various molecular weights, substitution sites and degrees were prepared. This work has allowed us to better  elucidate  chitosan  derivative  structure-function  relationships  and  to  develop  new  biological functionalities by the rational design of their molecular structures. We have created products that possess attributes such as moisture-retention ability, antibacterial and arthritis prevention capacities, and hydrogels which are environmentally sensitive. This research was the basis for value-added applications of chitosan in cosmetic, biomedical and other areas.

 

Lingyun Chen

Associate Professor

 

 

  • : 1-780-492 0038

    • DEPARTMENTDepartment of Agricultural, Food and Nutritional Science
      University of Alberta

    • COUNTRYCanada