Proteins and peptides are at the core of essential biological functions in living cells. Here we demonstrate how the basic study of a viral protein and its interaction with host lipid systems can lead to peptide-based drug design. In addition, we will explore how peptides can be used in nanotechnology. This will provide an overview of several uses of peptides and proteins. Moreover, it elucidates on how to evolve from basic scientific studies to applied patented research, which allows to found a biotechnology-based startup company.