Saliya N Ratnayaka

Title: Innovations in Lipid Assembly by Saliya N Ratnayaka

Introduction

Saliya N Ratnayaka is an accomplished inventor based in Tucson, AZ (US). She has made significant contributions to the field of lipid assemblies, particularly through her innovative patent that addresses the preparation of stabilized lipid assemblies. Her work is crucial for advancing the understanding and application of lipid membranes in various scientific and industrial contexts.

Latest Patents

Saliya N Ratnayaka holds a patent titled "Systems and methods of preparing stabilized lipid assemblies." This patent describes a novel approach involving the direct polymerization of lipid monomers or polymer scaffolding of non-lipid monomers. The process utilizes irradiation or redox polymerization performed at neutral pH, resulting in stabilized lipid assemblies. The invention includes an initiator-buffer component and a NaHSO3 redox mixture that polymerizes reactive lipid monomers while preserving the functionality of reconstituted membrane proteins. Improved stability of black lipid membranes (BLMs) is achieved through chemical cross-linking of polymerizable, hydrophobic, and commercially available non-lipid monomers. These monomers are partitioned into the suspended lipid membranes, and the BLMs are suspended across low surface energy apertures. The substrate apertures, modified with low surface energy and amphiphobic properties, facilitate a reproducible formation of BLMs by promoting interactions between the lipid tail and the substrate material. Additionally, polymeric lipid bilayer membranes are prepared by photochemical or redox initiated polymerization of polymerizable lipid monomers and are disposed onto supporting substrates for use in chromatography columns.

Career Highlights

Saliya N Ratnayaka is affiliated with the University of Arizona, where she continues to contribute to research and innovation in her field. Her work has garnered attention for its potential applications in biotechnology and materials science.

Collaborations

Saliya has collaborated with notable colleagues, including Steven Scott Saavedra and Craig A Aspinwall, enhancing the impact of her research through teamwork and shared expertise.

Conclusion

Saliya N Ratnayaka's innovative work in the preparation of stabilized lipid assemblies represents a significant advancement in the field of lipid research. Her contributions are poised to influence various applications in science and industry, showcasing the importance of her inventions.