Amyloids (found in tissues and linked to a number of diseases) have potential as nanomaterials because of their self-assembly and synthetic-polymer properties, according to University of Tel Aviv scientists Ehud Gazit and Izhack Cherny.

For example, they can be used to produce a conducting nanoscale coaxial cable by filling amyloid nanotubes with sliver and externally coating them with gold, and for encapsulation and controlled release of drugs.