Is it possible that co-assembly occurs between acetic acid and phenylalanine molecules?
From a biochemistry perspective, it is known that the enzyme acetate-CoA ligase catalyses the reversible formation of acetyl-CoA from acetate and CoA ― with enthalpy assistance provided by adenosine triphosphate (ATP), as it transforms to either diphosphate (ADP), or monophosphate (AMP). Acetyl-CoA can then react with L-phenylalanine to form N-acetyl-L-phenylalanine, while CoA is regenerated: Acetyl-CoA + L-phenylalanine → N-acetyl-L-phenylalanine + CoA.
Cf.: R.V. Krishna, P.R. Krishnaswamy, D.R. Rao, "Enzymic synthesis of N-acetyl-L-phenylalanine in Escherichia coli K12", Biochem. J., 124 (1971), 905-913.
The aprotic solvents do not form H bonds, protic solvents contain –OH groups and form H bonds with solute molecules. H-bonds hold a very important role in the self-assembly. The following reference can help you explain the interactions between the phenylalanine and solvent molecules.
REF: "Disposable pencil graphite electrode modified with peptide nanotubes for Vitamin B12 analysis", Applied Surface Science, Volume 303, 2014, Pages 37-45.
Phenylalanine can co-assemble with other molecules, if their inter-molecular interactions with other molecules surpass their phe to phe inter-molecular interactions. Yes, hydrogen bonding an important force deriving self assembly.
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