Kio, Michael P.E.
Assistant Research Professor
Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering
2208 Chemical and Nuclear Engineering Building
mkio@umd.edu
301-405-1923
Nanoparticle and Plasma Membrane Modelling
The goal of this research interest is on Drug Carrier Transport Mechanism of Nanoparticles through the Plasma Membrane of Healthy and Cancerous Cells. This research interest delivers a deeper and novel physical understanding of the transport mechanism of functionalized nanoparticles in cancer plasma membranes in comparison with healthy membranes; probing interactions, transport of nanoparticles as drug carriers, implementing Nanoscale Molecular Dynamics (NAMD) with models built with CHARMM-GUI membrane builder, CHARMM36 lipid and Martini force fields. Various presentations have been given to both private and public audiences, with accompanying materials published accordingly.
The specific aim of this study is to develop a comprehensive understanding of how nanoparticles interact and translocate through plasma membranes. This is achieved by extending the parameters of CHARMM force fields to incorporate interactions between nanoparticles and phospholipids. Experimental techniques such as SEM, TEM, AFM, DLS, and FTIR are implemented. The significance of this research is to advance the field of nanomedicine and biomanufacturing by working closely with our collaborators in institutions, national laboratories, industries, and government agencies to translate our findings into practical applications that benefit society.
Antifouling and Fouling Release Coating
The goal of this research interest proposes the research and development of an enhanced hybrid polymer antifouling, fouling-release, anti-icing, de-icing and anticorrosion coating formulation matrix for sea instruments, fuselage, airplane wings, internal seawater systems, hulls, and keels of ships. This project synthesizes and characterizes a plurality of fumed silica and hydrogel-based polymer antifouling, de-icing and anti-corrosion coating. Models are developed in the laboratory to probe these 
phenomena by implementing computational and experimental techniques. Using NSF National I-Corp funds, a proof-of-concept prototype fouling-release coating formulation was created, with ongoing research continuing with the help of an NSF/ASEE fellowship. The expectation is the development of a pilot prototype and patent.
Carbon Capture Implementing Biomaterials and Hydrogels
The concept of this research stemmed from exploring connections between the study of modeling plasma membranes and fouling release coating formulations.
Microalgae have great potential in terms of CO2 fixation, yet their low diffusion ability and short CO2 residence time limit their effectiveness. Hydrogels can be used to immobilize microalgae as CO2 adsorbents, which increase their growth rate. Mutagenesis, genetic engineering, and nanomaterials are promising techniques to improve the biofixation of CO2 in microalgae, however, these methods still face many challenges. Thus, it is crucial to conduct further investigations implementing molecular dynamics simulation on the tolerance of hydrogels and biomaterials towards higher levels of CO2 concentration to successfully capture and mitigate CO2. This research has potential applications in the development of innovative batteries and carbon capture techniques.
Doctoral Dissertation Committee
Examiner
Undergraduate Students
Aryamann Singh
Major: Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics
Class of 2027
Abhi Senthikumar
Major: Chemical Engineering
Class of 2026
Alena Zheng
Major: Bioengineering
Class of 2025
Jordan Lewis
Major: Biology
Class of 2025
Srivishnu Pyda
Major: Computer Science
Class of 2025
High School Students
Aneesh Puranam
Senior: River Hill School Clarksville Maryland
Chianugo Okeke
Senior: Eleanor Roosevelt High School, Maryland
School Club Advising
Terrapin Rocket Team
Winner 2024 Spaceport America Cup the largest intercollegiate rocket competition in the world
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