Segmental long spacing (SLS) collagen self-assembly was studied by analyzing aggregates formed from different nucleoside triphosphates at various protonation stages. Triple-negatively charged triphosphate groups were determined to be critical for SLS assembly, electrostatically bridging basic residues between collagen monomers. In the second part of this thesis, the nominal elastic modulus for each of the three forms of Type I collagen aggregate was measured and compared. Fibrous long spacing collagen, often associated with diseased tissues, exhibited lower stiffness in comparison to the other forms, native and SLS, suggesting decreased structural stability in diseased tissues. In the last section, a unidirectional pattern of native fibrils was assembled using mica as a template; the ability to customize and change the surface morphology was also demonstrated. For the first time, collagen monomers deposited on the mica were demonstrated to gain lateral mobility.

Segmental long spacing (SLS) collagen self-assembly was studied by analyzing aggregates formed from different nucleoside triphosphates at various protonation stages. Triple-negatively charged triphosphate groups were determined to be critical for SLS assembly, electrostatically bridging basic residues between collagen monomers. In the second part of this thesis, the nominal elastic modulus for each of the three forms of Type I collagen aggregate was measured and compared. Fibrous long spacing collagen, often associated with diseased tissues, exhibited lower stiffness in comparison to the other forms, native and SLS, suggesting decreased structural stability in diseased tissues. In the last section, a unidirectional pattern of native fibrils was assembled using mica as a template; the ability to customize and change the surface morphology was also demonstrated. For the first time, collagen monomers deposited on the mica were demonstrated to gain lateral mobility.