This short text addresses the topic of &bgr;-barrel membrane proteins, which can be used as models or components in nanotechnology. Although the title suggests a focus on &bgr;-barrel membrane proteins as tools, the actual text focuses more on the functional properties of outer proteins. Chapter 1 is a brief introduction to nanotechnology and nanobiological materials on a conceptual level. Chapters 2 and 3 discuss the biology of the largest &bgr;-barrel outer membrane protein (OMP) and its relevance as nanochannel material. In chapter 2, the unique characteristics of OMPs are considered as biological in terms of structure and function, while chapter 3 characterizes them in terms of biophysical features. The most valuable part in this chapter is paragraph 3.2.1, which provides the theoretical background. Chapter 4 is a quite brief overview of the theoretical concepts of OMP and computational tools for modeling and simulation. This chapter is neither extensive nor comprehensive, but could be used by first-year graduate students to provide an overview of possible topics for research projects. Chapter 5 explores biotechnology as a practical subject. The most valuable part of this chapter is found in paragraph 5.2, which details the challenges when dealing with OMP and possible solutions. The last chapter deals with technological applications. This chapter could be useful for researchers interested in the problems in functional reconstitution of OMP in variable environments. The authors conclude with a summary of OMP nanochannel applications that could be useful for current researchers.

Despite its brevity, this book is a good introduction to the problems of OMPs and their use as nanotechnology material. Because the book considers the aspects of concept design, theoretical considerations, production traps, and the biological characterization of OMP, it should be useful for graduate students and researchers in the field of nanotechnology.