Elucidating the underwater adhesion of the brown algae Fucus vesiculosus

Many marine organisms of the intertidal zone like mussels, barnacles and various algae must form strong attachments to the substrate in their environment in order to resist forces of crashing waves.

Therefore, they evolved high-performance underwater adhesives which are able to stick to various surface chemistries - a feat unmatched by current glues on the market.

Understanding the chemistry and formation process of these adhesives has great potential for the development of synthetic underwater glues which are of high interest for medical and industrial applications.

Here, I propose to conduct research on the underwater adhesion of the brown macroalgae Fucus vesiculosus analyzing its composition, structure and adhesive properties.

For this purpose, the early formation process shortly after the fertilization of Fucus egg cells will be analyzed using a combination of traditional histology and advanced electron microscopic and spectroscopic techniques. Once key building blocks have been identified, their dynamic secretion and assembly process will be followed over time.

Additionally, the curing of the adhesive and the involved crosslinking reactions will be investigated after different time points.

Elucidating key chemical principles of the complex formation of this underwater adhesive has the potential to inspire the development of novel and sustainable adhesives with a wide range of applications.