Unusual Chromophore and Cross-Links in Ranasnurfin:A Blue Protein from the Foam Nests of a Tropical Frog

摘要

Ranasmurfin is an unusual blue protein isolated from the nests of a Malaysian tree frog,Polypedates leucomystax,showing the rich chemical diversity displayed by biomolecular foams.Many species of tropical frogs use foams to protect delicate eggs and developing embryos against environmental challenges.These nests act as miniature ecosystems containing a spectrum of novel proteins and other macromolecules with functions related to foam stabilization and adhesion,resistance to microbial degradation,predation,or dehydration,providing a biocompatible environment for embryonic development.This work forms part of our wider study of the intriguing physical and chemical properties of biofoams as unusual examples of biological soft matter.