Scientists transform protein into glass

DURHAM, N.C., March 17 (UPI) -- U.S. researchers say they have devised a method to dry and preserve proteins in a glassified form that seems to retain the molecules' properties.

Duke University scientists say they are now investigating whether their glassification technique could bring about protein-based drugs that are cheaper to make and easier to deliver than current techniques that render proteins into freeze dried powders to preserve them.

Professor David Needham, who led the research, describes the glassification process as "molecular water surgery" because it removes virtually all the water from around a dissolved protein by "almost magically" pulling the water into a second solvent.

"It's like a sponge sucking water off a counter," said Needham, who has formed a company to develop the innovation. That firm has also applied to patent the idea of turning proteins into tiny glass beads at room temperature for drug delivery systems.

The study is reported by Needham, graduate student Deborah Rickard and former graduate student P. Brent Duncan in the Biophysical Journal.