Formation of quasi-stable nanostructures from L-N-stearoyl glutamic acid and its dimethyl ester on solid surfaces.

Self-assembling of organic molecules is of considerable interest seeing the development of functional biocompatible materials, micro- and nanoparticles, as well as the study of biomolecules structure and functioning. Here, we report on self-assembling of L-N-stearoyl glutamic acid and its dimethyl ester revealed by atomic force microscopy (AFM). The difference in size, shape, and behavior of the objects, detected on the surface, depending on their chemical nature, solvent, and AFM substrate, as well as deposition technique, is shown. Unwinding and re-assembling of the objects under the impact of the microscope probe were observed, indicating their quasi-stable chemical structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]