Lingyun Chen
Associate Professor
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).
Associate Professor