1
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Yang B, Li C, Ren Y, Wang W, Zhang X, Han X. Construction of the Glycolysis Metabolic Pathway Inside an Artificial Cell for the Synthesis of Amino Acid and Its Reversible Deformation. J Am Chem Soc 2024. [PMID: 39042264 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.4c06227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/24/2024]
Abstract
The bottom-up construction of artificial cells is beneficial for understanding cell working mechanisms. The glycolysis metabolism mimicry inside artificial cells is challenging. Herein, the glycolytic pathway (Entner-Doudoroff pathway in archaea) is reconstituted inside artificial cells. The glycolytic pathway comprising glucose dehydrogenase (GDH), gluconate dehydratase (GAD), and 2-keto-3-deoxygluconate aldolase (KDGA) converts glucose molecules to pyruvate molecules. Inside artificial cells, pyruvate molecules are further converted into alanine with the help of alanine dehydrogenase (AlaDH) to build a metabolic pathway for synthesizing amino acid. On the other hand, the pyruvate molecules from glycolysis stimulate the living mitochondria to produce ATP inside artificial cells, which further trigger actin monomers to polymerize to form actin filaments. With the addition of methylcellulose inside the artificial cell, the actin filaments form adjacent to the inner lipid bilayer, deforming the artificial cell from a spherical shape to a spindle shape. The spindle-shaped artificial cell reverses to a spherical shape by depolymerizing the actin filament upon laser irradiation. The glycolytic pathway and its further extension to produce amino acids (or ATP) inside artificial cells pave the path to build functional artificial cells with more complicated metabolic pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Boyu Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, 92 West Da-Zhi Street, Harbin 150001, China
| | - Chao Li
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, 92 West Da-Zhi Street, Harbin 150001, China
| | - Yongshuo Ren
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, 92 West Da-Zhi Street, Harbin 150001, China
| | - Weichen Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, 92 West Da-Zhi Street, Harbin 150001, China
| | - Xiangxiang Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, 92 West Da-Zhi Street, Harbin 150001, China
| | - Xiaojun Han
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, 92 West Da-Zhi Street, Harbin 150001, China
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2
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Gao Z, Sun H, Yang S, Li M, Qi N, Cui J. Red Blood Cell-Like Poly(ethylene glycol) Particles: Influence of Particle Stiffness on Biological Behaviors. ACS Macro Lett 2024:966-971. [PMID: 39038183 DOI: 10.1021/acsmacrolett.4c00330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/24/2024]
Abstract
Cell-like particles represent a category of synthetic particles designed to emulate the structures or functions of natural cells. Herein, we present the assembly of cell-like poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) particles with different stiffnesses and shapes via replication of animal cells and investigate the impact of particle stiffness on their biological behaviors. As a proof of concept, we fabricate red blood cell-like and spherical PEG particles with varying cross-linking densities. A systematic exploration of their properties, encompassing morphology, stiffness, deformability, and biodistribution, reveal the vital influence of particle stiffness on in vivo fate, elucidating its role in governing the traversal of capillaries and the dynamic interactions with phagocytic cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiliang Gao
- Key Laboratory of Colloid and Interface Chemistry of the Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250100, China
| | - Hongning Sun
- Key Laboratory of Colloid and Interface Chemistry of the Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250100, China
| | - Shuang Yang
- Key Laboratory of Colloid and Interface Chemistry of the Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250100, China
| | - Mengqi Li
- Key Laboratory of Colloid and Interface Chemistry of the Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250100, China
| | - Na Qi
- Key Laboratory of Colloid and Interface Chemistry of the Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250100, China
| | - Jiwei Cui
- Key Laboratory of Colloid and Interface Chemistry of the Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250100, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Targeted Drug Delivery and Advanced Pharmaceutics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250100, China
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3
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Zozulia O, Kriebisch CME, Kriebisch BAK, Soria-Carrera H, Ryadi KR, Steck J, Boekhoven J. Acyl Phosphates as Chemically Fueled Building Blocks for Self-Sustaining Protocells. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2024; 63:e202406094. [PMID: 38743852 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202406094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2024] [Revised: 04/21/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
Lipids spontaneously assemble into vesicle-forming membranes. Such vesicles serve as compartments for even the simplest living systems. Vesicles have been extensively studied for constructing synthetic cells or as models for protocells-the cells hypothesized to have existed before life. These compartments exist almost always close to equilibrium. Life, however, exists out of equilibrium. In this work, we studied vesicle-based compartments regulated by a non-equilibrium chemical reaction network that converts activating agents. In this way, the compartments require a constant or periodic supply of activating agents to sustain themselves. Specifically, we use activating agents to condense carboxylates and phosphate esters into acyl phosphate-based lipids that form vesicles. These vesicles can only be sustained when condensing agents are present; without them, they decay. We demonstrate that the chemical reaction network can operate on prebiotic activating agents, opening the door to prebiotically plausible, self-sustainable protocells that compete for resources. In future work, such protocells should be endowed with a genotype, e.g., self-replicating RNA structures, to alter the protocell's behavior. Such protocells could enable Darwinian evolution in a prebiotically plausible chemical system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oleksii Zozulia
- Department of Bioscience School of Natural Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Lichtenbergstrasse 4, 85748, Garching, Germany
| | - Christine M E Kriebisch
- Department of Bioscience School of Natural Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Lichtenbergstrasse 4, 85748, Garching, Germany
| | - Brigitte A K Kriebisch
- Department of Bioscience School of Natural Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Lichtenbergstrasse 4, 85748, Garching, Germany
| | - Héctor Soria-Carrera
- Department of Bioscience School of Natural Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Lichtenbergstrasse 4, 85748, Garching, Germany
| | - Kingu Rici Ryadi
- Department of Bioscience School of Natural Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Lichtenbergstrasse 4, 85748, Garching, Germany
| | - Juliana Steck
- Department of Bioscience School of Natural Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Lichtenbergstrasse 4, 85748, Garching, Germany
| | - Job Boekhoven
- Department of Bioscience School of Natural Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Lichtenbergstrasse 4, 85748, Garching, Germany
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4
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Kojima T, Noguchi Y, Terasaka K, Asakura K, Banno T. Engineering pH-Responsive, Self-Healing Vesicle-Type Artificial Tissues with Higher-Order Cooperative Functionalities. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024; 20:e2311255. [PMID: 38415816 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202311255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
Multicellular organisms demonstrate a hierarchical organization where multiple cells collectively form tissues, thereby enabling higher-order cooperative functionalities beyond the capabilities of individual cells. Drawing inspiration from this biological organization, assemblies of multiple protocells are developed to create novel functional materials with emergent higher-order cooperative functionalities. This paper presents new artificial tissues derived from multiple vesicles, which serve as protocellular models. These tissues are formed and manipulated through non-covalent interactions triggered by a salt bridge. Exhibiting pH-sensitive reversible formation and destruction under neutral conditions, these artificial vesicle tissues demonstrate three distinct higher-order cooperative functionalities: transportation of large cargoes, photo-induced contractions, and enhanced survivability against external threats. The rapid assembly and disassembly of these artificial tissues in response to pH variations enable controlled mechanical task performance. Additionally, the self-healing property of these artificial tissues indicates robustness against external mechanical damage. The research suggests that these vesicles can detect specific pH environments and spontaneously assemble into artificial tissues with advanced functionalities. This leads to the possibility of developing intelligent materials with high environmental specificity, particularly for applications in soft robotics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomoya Kojima
- Department of Applied Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Technology, Keio University, 3-14-1 Hiyoshi, Kohoku-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 223-8522, Japan
| | - Yutaro Noguchi
- Department of Applied Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Technology, Keio University, 3-14-1 Hiyoshi, Kohoku-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 223-8522, Japan
| | - Koichi Terasaka
- Department of Applied Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Technology, Keio University, 3-14-1 Hiyoshi, Kohoku-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 223-8522, Japan
| | - Kouichi Asakura
- Department of Applied Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Technology, Keio University, 3-14-1 Hiyoshi, Kohoku-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 223-8522, Japan
| | - Taisuke Banno
- Department of Applied Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Technology, Keio University, 3-14-1 Hiyoshi, Kohoku-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 223-8522, Japan
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5
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Zhao J, Han X. Investigation of artificial cells containing the Par system for bacterial plasmid segregation and inheritance mimicry. Nat Commun 2024; 15:4956. [PMID: 38858376 PMCID: PMC11164925 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-49412-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024] Open
Abstract
A crucial step in life processes is the transfer of accurate and correct genetic material to offspring. During the construction of autonomous artificial cells, a very important step is the inheritance of genetic information in divided artificial cells. The ParMRC system, as one of the most representative systems for DNA segregation in bacteria, can be purified and reconstituted into GUVs to form artificial cells. In this study, we demonstrate that the eGFP gene is segregated into two poles by a ParM filament with ParR as the intermediate linker to bind ParM and parC-eGFP DNA in artificial cells. After the ParM filament splits, the cells are externally induced to divide into two daughter cells that contain parC-eGFP DNA by osmotic pressure and laser irradiation. Using a PURE system, we translate eGFP DNA into enhanced green fluorescent proteins in daughter cells, and bacterial plasmid segregation and inheritance are successfully mimicked in artificial cells. Our results could lead to the construction of more sophisticated artificial cells that can reproduce with genetic information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingjing Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
| | - Xiaojun Han
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China.
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6
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Luo ZH, Chen C, Zhao QH, Deng NN. Functional metal-phenolic cortical cytoskeleton for artificial cells. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2024; 10:eadj4047. [PMID: 38363847 PMCID: PMC10871533 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adj4047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/18/2024]
Abstract
Cortex-like cytoskeleton, a thin layer of cross-linked cytoplasmic proteins underlying the cell membrane, plays an essential role in modulating membrane behavior and cell surface properties. However, bottom-up construction of functional cortex-like cytoskeleton in artificial cells remains a challenge. Here, we present metal-phenolic networks as artificial cortical cytoskeletons in liposome-based artificial cells. The metal-phenolic cytoskeleton-reinforced artificial cells exhibit long-term stability, enhanced resistance to a variety of harsh environments, tunable permeability, and well-controlled morphologies. We anticipate that our stable artificial cell models will stride forward to practical applications of liposome-based microsystem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhen-Hong Luo
- Shanghai Jiao Tong University, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Chen Chen
- Shanghai Jiao Tong University, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Qi-Hong Zhao
- Shanghai Jiao Tong University, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Nan-Nan Deng
- Shanghai Jiao Tong University, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai 200240, China
- Shanghai Jiao Tong University Sichuan Research Institute, Chengdu 610213, Sichuan, China
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7
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Maffeis V, Heuberger L, Nikoletić A, Schoenenberger C, Palivan CG. Synthetic Cells Revisited: Artificial Cells Construction Using Polymeric Building Blocks. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2305837. [PMID: 37984885 PMCID: PMC10885666 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202305837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Revised: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
The exponential growth of research on artificial cells and organelles underscores their potential as tools to advance the understanding of fundamental biological processes. The bottom-up construction from a variety of building blocks at the micro- and nanoscale, in combination with biomolecules is key to developing artificial cells. In this review, artificial cells are focused upon based on compartments where polymers are the main constituent of the assembly. Polymers are of particular interest due to their incredible chemical variety and the advantage of tuning the properties and functionality of their assemblies. First, the architectures of micro- and nanoscale polymer assemblies are introduced and then their usage as building blocks is elaborated upon. Different membrane-bound and membrane-less compartments and supramolecular structures and how they combine into advanced synthetic cells are presented. Then, the functional aspects are explored, addressing how artificial organelles in giant compartments mimic cellular processes. Finally, how artificial cells communicate with their surrounding and each other such as to adapt to an ever-changing environment and achieve collective behavior as a steppingstone toward artificial tissues, is taken a look at. Engineering artificial cells with highly controllable and programmable features open new avenues for the development of sophisticated multifunctional systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viviana Maffeis
- Department of ChemistryUniversity of BaselMattenstrasse 22BaselCH‐4002Switzerland
- NCCR‐Molecular Systems EngineeringBPR 1095, Mattenstrasse 24aBaselCH‐4058Switzerland
| | - Lukas Heuberger
- Department of ChemistryUniversity of BaselMattenstrasse 22BaselCH‐4002Switzerland
| | - Anamarija Nikoletić
- Department of ChemistryUniversity of BaselMattenstrasse 22BaselCH‐4002Switzerland
- Swiss Nanoscience InstituteUniversity of BaselKlingelbergstrasse 82BaselCH‐4056Switzerland
| | | | - Cornelia G. Palivan
- Department of ChemistryUniversity of BaselMattenstrasse 22BaselCH‐4002Switzerland
- NCCR‐Molecular Systems EngineeringBPR 1095, Mattenstrasse 24aBaselCH‐4058Switzerland
- Swiss Nanoscience InstituteUniversity of BaselKlingelbergstrasse 82BaselCH‐4056Switzerland
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8
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Chen J, Brea RJ, Fracassi A, Cho CJ, Wong AM, Salvador-Castell M, Sinha SK, Budin I, Devaraj NK. Rapid Formation of Non-canonical Phospholipid Membranes by Chemoselective Amide-Forming Ligations with Hydroxylamines. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2024; 63:e202311635. [PMID: 37919232 PMCID: PMC11179435 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202311635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2023] [Revised: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
There has been increasing interest in methods to generate synthetic lipid membranes as key constituents of artificial cells or to develop new tools for remodeling membranes in living cells. However, the biosynthesis of phospholipids involves elaborate enzymatic pathways that are challenging to reconstitute in vitro. An alternative approach is to use chemical reactions to non-enzymatically generate natural or non-canonical phospholipids de novo. Previous reports have shown that synthetic lipid membranes can be formed in situ using various ligation chemistries, but these methods lack biocompatibility and/or suffer from slow kinetics at physiological pH. Thus, it would be valuable to develop chemoselective strategies for synthesizing phospholipids from water-soluble precursors that are compatible with synthetic or living cells Here, we demonstrate that amide-forming ligations between lipid precursors bearing hydroxylamines and α-ketoacids (KAs) or potassium acyltrifluoroborates (KATs) can be used to prepare non-canonical phospholipids at physiological pH conditions. The generated amide-linked phospholipids spontaneously self-assemble into cell-like micron-sized vesicles similar to natural phospholipid membranes. We show that lipid synthesis using KAT ligation proceeds extremely rapidly, and the high selectivity and biocompatibility of the approach facilitates the in situ synthesis of phospholipids and associated membranes in living cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiyue Chen
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, Natural Sciences Building, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Roberto J Brea
- Biomimetic Membrane Chemistry (BioMemChem) Group, CICA-Centro Interdisciplinar de Química e Bioloxía, Universidade da Coruña, Rúa As Carballeiras, 15701, A Coruña, Spain
| | - Alessandro Fracassi
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, Natural Sciences Building, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Christy J Cho
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, Natural Sciences Building, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Adrian M Wong
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, Natural Sciences Building, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Marta Salvador-Castell
- Department of Physics, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, Building: Mayer Hall Addition 4561, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Sunil K Sinha
- Department of Physics, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, Building: Mayer Hall Addition 4561, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Itay Budin
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, Natural Sciences Building, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Neal K Devaraj
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, Natural Sciences Building, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
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9
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Wu A, Guo Y, Li M, Li Q, Zang H, Li J. Tunable Chirality of Self-Assembled Dipeptides Mediated by Bipyridine Derivative. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2023; 62:e202314368. [PMID: 37938522 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202314368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Revised: 11/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023]
Abstract
Supramolecular peptide assemblies have been widely used for the development of biomedical, catalytical, and optical materials with chiral nanostructures in view of the intrinsic chirality of peptides. However, the assembly pathway and chiral transformation behavior of various peptides remain largely elusive especially for the transient assemblies under out-of-equilibrium conditions. Herein, the N-fluorenylmethoxycarbonyl-protected phenylalanine-tyrosine dipeptide (Fmoc-FY) was used as a peptide assembly platform, which showed that the assembly proceeds multistep evolution. The original spheres caused by liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) can nucleate and elongate into the formation of right-handed helices which were metastable and easily converted into microribbons. Interestingly, a bipyridine derivative can be introduced to effectively control the assembly pathway and induce the formation of thermodynamically stable right-handed or left-handed helices at different stoichiometric ratios. In addition, the chiral assembly can also be regulated by ultrasound or enzyme catalysis. This minimalistic system not only broadens the nucleation-elongation mechanisms of protein aggregates but also promotes the controllable design and development of chiral biomaterials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aoli Wu
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Technology Research and Evaluation of Drug Products, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Yongxian Guo
- Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), Shandong Analysis and Test Center, Jinan, Shandong, 250014, China
| | - Meiqi Li
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Technology Research and Evaluation of Drug Products, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Qin Li
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Technology Research and Evaluation of Drug Products, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Hengchang Zang
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Technology Research and Evaluation of Drug Products, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Junbai Li
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences (BNLMS), CAS Key Lab of Colloid, Interface and Chemical Thermodynamics, Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
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10
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Wang X, Qiao X, Chen H, Wang L, Liu X, Huang X. Synthetic-Cell-Based Multi-Compartmentalized Hierarchical Systems. SMALL METHODS 2023; 7:e2201712. [PMID: 37069779 DOI: 10.1002/smtd.202201712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Revised: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
In the extant lifeforms, the self-sustaining behaviors refer to various well-organized biochemical reactions in spatial confinement, which rely on compartmentalization to integrate and coordinate the molecularly crowded intracellular environment and complicated reaction networks in living/synthetic cells. Therefore, the biological phenomenon of compartmentalization has become an essential theme in the field of synthetic cell engineering. Recent progress in the state-of-the-art of synthetic cells has indicated that multi-compartmentalized synthetic cells should be developed to obtain more advanced structures and functions. Herein, two ways of developing multi-compartmentalized hierarchical systems, namely interior compartmentalization of synthetic cells (organelles) and integration of synthetic cell communities (synthetic tissues), are summarized. Examples are provided for different construction strategies employed in the above-mentioned engineering ways, including spontaneous compartmentalization in vesicles, host-guest nesting, phase separation mediated multiphase, adhesion-mediated assembly, programmed arrays, and 3D printing. Apart from exhibiting advanced structures and functions, synthetic cells are also applied as biomimetic materials. Finally, key challenges and future directions regarding the development of multi-compartmentalized hierarchical systems are summarized; these are expected to lay the foundation for the creation of a "living" synthetic cell as well as provide a larger platform for developing new biomimetic materials in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoliang Wang
- MIIT Key Laboratory of Critical Materials Technology for New Energy Conversion and Storage, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, 150001, P. R. China
| | - Xin Qiao
- MIIT Key Laboratory of Critical Materials Technology for New Energy Conversion and Storage, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, 150001, P. R. China
| | - Haixu Chen
- MIIT Key Laboratory of Critical Materials Technology for New Energy Conversion and Storage, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, 150001, P. R. China
| | - Lei Wang
- MIIT Key Laboratory of Critical Materials Technology for New Energy Conversion and Storage, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, 150001, P. R. China
| | - Xiaoman Liu
- MIIT Key Laboratory of Critical Materials Technology for New Energy Conversion and Storage, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, 150001, P. R. China
| | - Xin Huang
- MIIT Key Laboratory of Critical Materials Technology for New Energy Conversion and Storage, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, 150001, P. R. China
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11
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Sümbelli Y, Mason AF, van Hest JCM. Toward Artificial Cell-Mediated Tissue Engineering: A New Perspective. Adv Biol (Weinh) 2023; 7:e2300149. [PMID: 37565690 DOI: 10.1002/adbi.202300149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023]
Abstract
The fast-growing pace of regenerative medicine research has allowed the development of a range of novel approaches to tissue engineering applications. Until recently, the main points of interest in the majority of studies have been to combine different materials to control cellular behavior and use different techniques to optimize tissue formation, from 3-D bioprinting to in situ regeneration. However, with the increase of the understanding of the fundamentals of cellular organization, tissue development, and regeneration, has also come the realization that for the next step in tissue engineering, a higher level of spatiotemporal control on cell-matrix interactions is required. It is proposed that the combination of artificial cell research with tissue engineering could provide a route toward control over complex tissue development. By equipping artificial cells with the underlying mechanisms of cellular functions, such as communication mechanisms, migration behavior, or the coherent behavior of cells depending on the surrounding matrix properties, they can be applied in instructing native cells into desired differentiation behavior at a resolution not to be attained with traditional matrix materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiğitcan Sümbelli
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Chemical Engineering and Chemistry, Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology, P.O. Box 513, Eindhoven, 5600MB, The Netherlands
| | - Alexander F Mason
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Science, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Jan C M van Hest
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Chemical Engineering and Chemistry, Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology, P.O. Box 513, Eindhoven, 5600MB, The Netherlands
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12
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Sun Q, Shi J, Sun H, Zhu Y, Du J. Membrane and Lumen-Compartmentalized Polymersomes for Biocatalysis and Cell Mimics. Biomacromolecules 2023; 24:4587-4604. [PMID: 37842883 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.3c00726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2023]
Abstract
Compartmentalization is a crucial feature of a natural cell, manifested in cell membrane and inner lumen. Inspired by the cellular structure, multicompartment polymersomes (MCPs), including membrane-compartmentalized polymersomes and lumen-compartmentalized polymersomes (polymersomes-in-polymersomes), have aroused great expectations for biological applications such as biocatalysis and cell mimics in the past decades. Compared with traditional polymersomes, MCPs have advantages in encapsulating multiple enzymes separately for multistep enzymatic cascade reactions. In this review, first, the design principles and preparation methods of membrane-compartmentalized and lumen-compartmentalized polymersomes are summarized. Next, recent advances of MCPs as nanoreactors and cell mimics to mimic subcellular organelles or artificial cells are discussed. Finally, the future research directions of MCPs are prospected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingmei Sun
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology and Brain Functional Modulation, Clinical Research Center for Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Translational Research Institute of Brain and Brain-Like Intelligence, Shanghai Fourth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200434, China
- Department of Polymeric Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Key Laboratory of Advanced Civil Engineering Materials of Ministry of Education, Tongji University, 4800 Caoan Road, Shanghai 201804, China
| | - Junqiu Shi
- Department of Polymeric Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Key Laboratory of Advanced Civil Engineering Materials of Ministry of Education, Tongji University, 4800 Caoan Road, Shanghai 201804, China
| | - Hui Sun
- State Key Laboratory of High-Efficiency Coal Utilization and Green Chemical Engineering, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Ningxia University, Yinchuan 750021, China
| | - Yunqing Zhu
- Department of Polymeric Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Key Laboratory of Advanced Civil Engineering Materials of Ministry of Education, Tongji University, 4800 Caoan Road, Shanghai 201804, China
| | - Jianzhong Du
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology and Brain Functional Modulation, Clinical Research Center for Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Translational Research Institute of Brain and Brain-Like Intelligence, Shanghai Fourth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200434, China
- Department of Polymeric Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Key Laboratory of Advanced Civil Engineering Materials of Ministry of Education, Tongji University, 4800 Caoan Road, Shanghai 201804, China
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13
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Xu C, Fracassi A, Baryiames CP, Bhattacharya A, Devaraj NK, Baiz CR. Sponge-phase Lipid Droplets as Synthetic Organelles: An Ultrafast Study of Hydrogen Bonding and Interfacial Environments. Chemphyschem 2023; 24:e202300404. [PMID: 37486881 DOI: 10.1002/cphc.202300404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Revised: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023]
Abstract
Bottom-up design of biomimetic organelles has gained recent attention as a route towards understanding the transition between non-living matter and life. Despite various artificial lipid membranes being developed, the specific relations between lipid structure, composition, interfacial properties, and morphology are not currently understood. Sponge-phase droplets contain dense, nonlamellar lipid bilayer networks that capture the complexities of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), making them ideal artificial models of such organelles. Here, we combine ultrafast two-dimensional infrared (2D IR) spectroscopy and molecular dynamics simulations to investigate the interfacial H-bond networks in sponge-phase droplets composed of glycolipid and nonionic detergents. In the sponge phase, the interfacial environments are more hydrated and water molecules confined to the nanometer-scale aqueous channels in the sponge phase exhibit dynamics that are significantly slower compared to bulk water. Surfactant configurations and microscopic phase separation play a dominant role in determining membrane curvature and slow dynamics observed in the sponge phase. The studies suggest that H-bond networks within the nanometer-scale channels are disrupted not only by confinement but also by the interactions of surfactants, which extend 1-2 nm from the bilayer surface. The results provide a molecular-level description for controlling phase and morphology in the design of synthetic lipid organelles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cong Xu
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Texas at Austin, 105 E. 24th St. Stop A5300, 78712-1224, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Alessandro Fracassi
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, Natural Sciences Building 3328, 92093, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Christopher P Baryiames
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Texas at Austin, 105 E. 24th St. Stop A5300, 78712-1224, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Ahanjit Bhattacharya
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, Natural Sciences Building 3328, 92093, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Neal K Devaraj
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, Natural Sciences Building 3328, 92093, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Carlos R Baiz
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Texas at Austin, 105 E. 24th St. Stop A5300, 78712-1224, Austin, TX, USA
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14
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Qi C, Ma X, Zhong J, Fang J, Huang Y, Deng X, Kong T, Liu Z. Facile and Programmable Capillary-Induced Assembly of Prototissues via Hanging Drop Arrays. ACS NANO 2023; 17:16787-16797. [PMID: 37639562 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.3c03516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
An important goal for bottom-up synthetic biology is to construct tissue-like structures from artificial cells. The key is the ability to control the assembly of the individual artificial cells. Unlike most methods resorting to external fields or sophisticated devices, inspired by the hanging drop method used for culturing spheroids of biological cells, we employ a capillary-driven approach to assemble giant unilamellar vesicles (GUVs)-based protocells into colonized prototissue arrays by means of a coverslip with patterned wettability. By spatially confining and controllably merging a mixed population of lipid-coated double-emulsion droplets that hang on a water/oil interface, an array of synthetic tissue-like constructs can be obtained. Each prototissue module in the array comprises multiple tightly packed droplet compartments where interfacial lipid bilayers are self-assembled at the interfaces both between two neighboring droplets and between the droplet and the external aqueous environment. The number, shape, and composition of the interconnected droplet compartments can be precisely controlled. Each prototissue module functions as a processer, in which fast signal transports of molecules via cell-cell and cell-environment communications have been demonstrated by molecular diffusions and cascade enzyme reactions, exhibiting the ability to be used as biochemical sensing and microreactor arrays. Our work provides a simple yet scalable and programmable method to form arrays of prototissues for synthetic biology, tissue engineering, and high-throughput assays.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng Qi
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Micro/Nano Optomechatronics Engineering, College of Mechatronics and Control Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518000, China
| | - Xudong Ma
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Micro/Nano Optomechatronics Engineering, College of Mechatronics and Control Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518000, China
| | - Junfeng Zhong
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Micro/Nano Optomechatronics Engineering, College of Mechatronics and Control Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518000, China
| | - Jiangyu Fang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Micro/Nano Optomechatronics Engineering, College of Mechatronics and Control Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518000, China
| | - Yuanding Huang
- College of Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518000, China
| | - Xiaokang Deng
- College of Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518000, China
| | - Tiantian Kong
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Medicine, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518000, China
- Department of Urology, Shenzhen Institute of Translational Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518000, China
| | - Zhou Liu
- College of Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518000, China
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15
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Shimokawa N, Hamada T. Physical Concept to Explain the Regulation of Lipid Membrane Phase Separation under Isothermal Conditions. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:life13051105. [PMID: 37240749 DOI: 10.3390/life13051105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2023] [Revised: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 04/22/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Lateral phase separation within lipid bilayer membranes has attracted considerable attention in the fields of biophysics and cell biology. Living cells organize laterally segregated compartments, such as raft domains in an ordered phase, and regulate their dynamic structures under isothermal conditions to promote cellular functions. Model membrane systems with minimum components are powerful tools for investigating the basic phenomena of membrane phase separation. With the use of such model systems, several physicochemical characteristics of phase separation have been revealed. This review focuses on the isothermal triggering of membrane phase separation from a physical point of view. We consider the free energy of the membrane that describes lateral phase separation and explain the experimental results of model membranes to regulate domain formation under isothermal conditions. Three possible regulation factors are discussed: electrostatic interactions, chemical reactions and membrane tension. These findings may contribute to a better understanding of membrane lateral organization within living cells that function under isothermal conditions and could be useful for the development of artificial cell engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naofumi Shimokawa
- School of Materials Science, Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, 1-1 Asahidai, Nomi 923-1292, Ishikawa, Japan
| | - Tsutomu Hamada
- School of Materials Science, Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, 1-1 Asahidai, Nomi 923-1292, Ishikawa, Japan
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16
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Cooper A, Girish V, Subramaniam AB. Osmotic Pressure Enables High-Yield Assembly of Giant Vesicles in Solutions of Physiological Ionic Strengths. LANGMUIR : THE ACS JOURNAL OF SURFACES AND COLLOIDS 2023; 39:5579-5590. [PMID: 37021722 PMCID: PMC10116648 DOI: 10.1021/acs.langmuir.3c00457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Giant unilamellar vesicles (GUVs) are micrometer-scale minimal cellular mimics that are useful for bottom-up synthetic biology and drug delivery. Unlike assembly in low-salt solutions, assembly of GUVs in solutions with ionic concentrations of 100-150 mM Na/KCl (salty solutions) is challenging. Chemical compounds deposited on the substrate or incorporated into the lipid mixture could assist in the assembly of GUVs. Here, we investigate quantitatively the effects of temperature and chemical identity of six polymeric compounds and one small molecule compound on the molar yields of GUVs composed of three different lipid mixtures using high-resolution confocal microscopy and large data set image analysis. All the polymers moderately increased the yields of GUVs either at 22 or 37 °C, whereas the small molecule compound was ineffective. Low-gelling temperature agarose is the singular compound that consistently produces yields of GUVs of greater than 10%. We propose a free energy model of budding to explain the effects of polymers in assisting the assembly of GUVs. The osmotic pressure exerted on the membranes by the dissolved polymer balances the increased adhesion between the membranes, thus reducing the free energy for bud formation. Data obtained by modulating the ionic strength and ion valency of the solution shows that the evolution of the yield of GUVs supports our model's prediction. In addition, polymer-specific interactions with the substrate and the lipid mixture affects yields. The uncovered mechanistic insights provide a quantitative experimental and theoretical framework to guide future studies. Additionally, this work shows a facile means for obtaining GUVs in solutions of physiological ionic strengths.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexis Cooper
- Department
of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University
of California, Merced, Merced, California 95343, United States
| | - Vaishnavi Girish
- Department
of Bioengineering, University of California,
Merced, Merced, California 95343, United States
| | - Anand Bala Subramaniam
- Department
of Bioengineering, University of California,
Merced, Merced, California 95343, United States
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17
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Tang J, Yang Z, Zhang Y, Huang R, Yu C, Yu C. Preparation of PEGylated nedaplatin liposomes with sustained release behavior for enhancing the antitumor efficacy of non-small cell lung cancer. Int J Pharm 2023; 635:122708. [PMID: 36764415 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2023.122708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2022] [Revised: 01/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/04/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023]
Abstract
Nedaplatin (NDP) plays an important role in the chemotherapies of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, dose-limiting toxicities such as myelosuppression and drug resistance restrict its clinical application. Herein, we intended to overcome these defects by developing a PEGylated liposomal formulation encapsulated NDP (NDP-LPs). For the first time, we found the incompatibility between NDP and natural phospholipids such as egg phosphatidylcholine (EPC) using the high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method. The orthogonal experimental design was applied to optimize the conditions for preparing NDP-LPs, with encapsulation efficiency (EE) as the evaluation indicator. The physicochemical properties of optimized NDP-LPs were further characterized, including particle size, zeta potential, EE, drug release profiles, and so on. Results showed that a significantly sustained-release profile of NDP-LPs was observed and the releasing time of NDP could reach as long as 8 days. At the cellular level, NDP encapsulated in the PEGylated liposomes enhanced its cellular uptake and possessed potent cytotoxic activity. After intravenous injection, NDP-LPs could accumulate at tumor sites and effectivelyinhibit tumor growth of mice without obvious adverse effects. In conclusion, our results demonstrated that PEGylated liposomes could serve as a promising carrier to enhance the therapeutic effects of NDP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinsong Tang
- Research Center of Pharmaceutical Preparations and Nanomedicine, College of Pharmacy, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Zhangyou Yang
- Pharmaceutical Engineering Research Center, College of Pharmacy, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Yuan Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400010, China
| | - Ruixue Huang
- Research Center of Pharmaceutical Preparations and Nanomedicine, College of Pharmacy, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Chaoqun Yu
- Research Center of Pharmaceutical Preparations and Nanomedicine, College of Pharmacy, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China.
| | - Chao Yu
- Research Center of Pharmaceutical Preparations and Nanomedicine, College of Pharmacy, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China; Pharmaceutical Engineering Research Center, College of Pharmacy, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China.
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18
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Park H, Wang W, Min SH, Ren Y, Shin K, Han X. Artificial organelles for sustainable chemical energy conversion and production in artificial cells: Artificial mitochondrion and chloroplasts. BIOPHYSICS REVIEWS 2023; 4:011311. [PMID: 38510162 PMCID: PMC10903398 DOI: 10.1063/5.0131071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
Sustainable energy conversion modules are the main challenges for building complex reaction cascades in artificial cells. Recent advances in biotechnology have enabled this sustainable energy supply, especially the adenosine triphosphate (ATP), by mimicking the organelles, which are the core structures for energy conversion in living cells. Three components are mainly shared by the artificial organelles: the membrane compartment separating the inner and outer parts, membrane proteins for proton translocation, and the molecular rotary machine for ATP synthesis. Depending on the initiation factors, they are further categorized into artificial mitochondrion and artificial chloroplasts, which use chemical nutrients for oxidative phosphorylation and light for photosynthesis, respectively. In this review, we summarize the essential components needed for artificial organelles and then review the recent progress on two different artificial organelles. Recent strategies, purified and identified proteins, and working principles are discussed. With more study on the artificial mitochondrion and artificial chloroplasts, they are expected to be very powerful tools, allowing us to achieve complex cascading reactions in artificial cells, like the ones that happen in real cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyun Park
- Department of Chemistry and Institute of Biological Interfaces, Sogang University, South Korea
| | - Weichen Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
| | - Seo Hyeon Min
- Department of Chemistry and Institute of Biological Interfaces, Sogang University, South Korea
| | - Yongshuo Ren
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
| | - Kwanwoo Shin
- Department of Chemistry and Institute of Biological Interfaces, Sogang University, South Korea
| | - Xiaojun Han
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
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19
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Gao N, Mann S. Membranized Coacervate Microdroplets: from Versatile Protocell Models to Cytomimetic Materials. Acc Chem Res 2023; 56:297-307. [PMID: 36625520 PMCID: PMC9910039 DOI: 10.1021/acs.accounts.2c00696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Although complex coacervate microdroplets derived from associative phase separation of counter-charged electrolytes have emerged as a broad platform for the bottom-up construction of membraneless, molecularly crowded protocells, the absence of an enclosing membrane limits the construction of more sophisticated artificial cells and their use as functional cytomimetic materials. To address this problem, we and others have recently developed chemical-based strategies for the membranization of preformed coacervate microdroplets. In this Account, we review our recent work on diverse coacervate systems using a range of membrane building blocks and assembly processes. First, we briefly introduce the unusual nature of the coacervate/water interface, emphasizing the ultralow interfacial tension and broad interfacial width as physiochemical properties that require special attention in the judicious design of membranized coacervate microdroplets. Second, we classify membrane assembly into two different approaches: (i) interfacial self-assembly by using diverse surface-active building blocks such as molecular amphiphiles (fatty acids, phospholipids, block copolymers, protein-polymer conjugates) or nano- and microscale objects (liposomes, nanoparticle surfactants, cell fragments, living cells) with appropriate wettability; and (ii) coacervate droplet-to-vesicle reconfiguration by employing auxiliary surface reconstruction agents or triggering endogenous transitions (self-membranization) under nonstoichiometric (charge mismatched) conditions. We then discuss the key cytomimetic behaviors of membranized coacervate-based model protocells. Customizable permeability is achieved by synergistic effects operating between the molecularly crowded coacervate interior and surrounding membrane. In contrast, metabolic-like endogenous reactivity, diffusive chemical signaling, and collective chemical operations occur specifically in protocell networks comprising diverse populations of membranized coacervate microdroplets. In each case, these cytomimetic behaviors can give rise to functional microscale materials capable of promising cell-like applications. For example, immobilizing spatially segregated enzyme-loaded phospholipid-coated coacervate protocells in concentrically tubular hydrogels delivers prototissue-like bulk materials that generate nitric oxide in vitro, enabling platelet deactivation and inhibition of blood clot formation. Alternatively, therapeutic protocells with in vivo vasoactivity, high hemocompatibility, and increased blood circulation times are constructed by spontaneous assembly of hemoglobin-containing cell-membrane fragments on the surface of enzyme-loaded coacervate microdroplets. Higher-order properties such as artificial endocytosis are achieved by using nanoparticle-caged coacervate protocell hosts that selectively and actively capture guest nano- and microscale objects by responses to exogenous stimuli or via endogenous enzyme-mediated reactions. Finally, we discuss the current limitations in the design and programming of membranized coacervate microdroplets, which may help to guide future directions in this emerging research area. Taken together, we hope that this Account will inspire new advances in membranized coacervate microdroplets and promote their application in the development of integrated protocell models and functional cytomimetic materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ning Gao
- Max
Planck-Bristol Centre for Minimal Biology, School of Chemistry, University of Bristol, Cantock’s Close, BristolBS8 1TS, United
Kingdom,Centre
for Protolife Research and Centre for Organized Matter Chemistry,
School of Chemistry, University of Bristol, Cantock’s Close, BristolBS8 1TS, United Kingdom
| | - Stephen Mann
- Max
Planck-Bristol Centre for Minimal Biology, School of Chemistry, University of Bristol, Cantock’s Close, BristolBS8 1TS, United
Kingdom,Centre
for Protolife Research and Centre for Organized Matter Chemistry,
School of Chemistry, University of Bristol, Cantock’s Close, BristolBS8 1TS, United Kingdom,School
of Materials Science and Engineering, Shanghai
Jiao Tong University, 800 Dongchuan Road, Minhang District, Shanghai200240, PR China,Zhangjiang
Institute for Advanced Study (ZIAS), Shanghai
Jiao Tong University, 429 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai201203, PR China,
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20
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Zong W, Shao X, Li J, Chai Y, Hu X, Zhang X. Synthetic Intracellular Environments: From Basic Science to Applications. Anal Chem 2023; 95:535-549. [PMID: 36625127 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.2c04199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Wei Zong
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Qiqihar University, No. 42 Wenhua Street, Qiqihar161006, China
| | - Xiaotong Shao
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Qiqihar University, No. 42 Wenhua Street, Qiqihar161006, China
| | - Jinlong Li
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Qiqihar University, No. 42 Wenhua Street, Qiqihar161006, China.,Heilongjiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Catalytic Synthesis for Fine Chemicals, Qiqihar University, Qiqihar161006, China
| | - Yunhe Chai
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Qiqihar University, No. 42 Wenhua Street, Qiqihar161006, China
| | - Xinyu Hu
- Key Laboratory of Micro-Nano Optoelectronic Devices (Wenzhou), College of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou325035, China
| | - Xunan Zhang
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Qiqihar University, No. 42 Wenhua Street, Qiqihar161006, China
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21
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Hamada T, Mizuno S, Kitahata H. Domain dynamics of phase-separated lipid membranes under shear flow. SOFT MATTER 2022; 18:9069-9075. [PMID: 36420806 DOI: 10.1039/d2sm00825d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The dynamical behaviour of lateral domains on phase-separated lipid vesicles under external flow is reported. A microfluidic chamber was used for the immobilization of vesicles and the application of shear. Microscopic observation revealed that domains tended to be localized at the vortex center and to exhibit a stripe morphology as the flow speed increased. We clarified the dependency of domain behaviors on the flow speed and lipid mixing fraction. The cholesterol ratio in the membrane affected these domain behaviors. Next, we investigated the growth of domains under flow. We discuss the mechanism of these trends by considering the free energy of phase separation, and reproduce the experimental results by numerical simulations. These findings may lead to a better understanding of the dynamical properties of the membrane under nonequilibrium situations and the biophysical mechanism of cellular mechanotransduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tsutomu Hamada
- School of Materials Science, Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Nomi City, Ishikawa 923-1292, Japan.
| | - Shino Mizuno
- School of Materials Science, Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Nomi City, Ishikawa 923-1292, Japan.
| | - Hiroyuki Kitahata
- Department of Physics, Graduate School of Science, Chiba University, Chiba 263-8522, Japan
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22
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Han F, Xu B, Lu N, Caliari A, Lu H, Xia Y, Su'etsugu M, Xu J, Yomo T. Optimization and compartmentalization of a cell-free mixture of DNA amplification and protein translation. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2022; 106:8139-8149. [PMID: 36355086 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-022-12278-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Revised: 10/30/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Recent studies have shown that the reconstituted cell-free DNA replisome and in vitro transcription and translation systems from Escherichia coli are highly important in applied and synthetic biology. To date, no attempt has been made to combine those two systems. Here, we study the performance of the mixed two separately exploited systems commercially available as RCR and PURE systems. Regarding the genetic information flow from DNA to proteins, mixtures with various ratios of RCR/PURE gave low protein expression, possibly due to the well-known conflict between replication and transcription or inappropriate buffer conditions. To further increase the compatibility of the two systems, rationally designed reaction buffers with a lower concentration of nucleoside triphosphates in 50 mM HEPES (pH7.6) were evaluated, showing increased performance from RCR/PURE (85%/15%) in a time-dependent manner. The compatibility was also validated in compartmentalized cell-sized droplets encapsulating the same RCR/PURE soup. Our findings can help to better fine-tune the reaction conditions of RCR-PURE systems and provide new avenues for rewiring the central dogma of molecular biology as self-sustaining systems in synthetic cell models. KEY POINTS: • Commercial reconstituted DNA amplification (RCR) and transcription and translation (PURE) systems hamper each other upon mixing. • A newly optimized buffer with a low bias for PURE was formulated in the RCR-PURE mixture. • The performance and dynamics of RCR-PURE were investigated in either bulk or compartmentalized droplets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fuhai Han
- Laboratory of Biology and Information Science, School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200062, People's Republic of China
| | - Boying Xu
- Laboratory of Biology and Information Science, School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200062, People's Republic of China.,Tongji University Cancer Center, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200072, China
| | - Nan Lu
- Laboratory of Biology and Information Science, School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200062, People's Republic of China
| | - Adriano Caliari
- Laboratory of Biology and Information Science, School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200062, People's Republic of China
| | - Hui Lu
- Laboratory of Biology and Information Science, School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200062, People's Republic of China
| | - Yang Xia
- Laboratory of Biology and Information Science, School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200062, People's Republic of China
| | - Masayuki Su'etsugu
- Department of Life Science, College of Science, Rikkyo University, Tokyo, 171-8501, Japan
| | - Jian Xu
- Laboratory of Biology and Information Science, School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200062, People's Republic of China.
| | - Tetsuya Yomo
- Laboratory of Biology and Information Science, School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200062, People's Republic of China.
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23
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Kang SG, Kim KY, Cho Y, Jeong DY, Lee JH, Nishimura T, Lee SS, Kwak SK, You Y, Jung JH. Circularly Polarized Luminescence Active Supramolecular Nanotubes Based on Pt
II
Complexes That Undergo Dynamic Morphological Transformation and Helicity Inversion. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2022; 61:e202207310. [DOI: 10.1002/anie.202207310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Seok Gyu Kang
- Department of Chemistry and Research Institution of Natural Sciences Gyeongsang National University (GNU) Jinju 52828 Republic of Korea
| | - Ka Young Kim
- Department of Chemistry and Research Institution of Natural Sciences Gyeongsang National University (GNU) Jinju 52828 Republic of Korea
| | - Yumi Cho
- Department of Energy Enginerring School of Energy and Chemical Engineering Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST) Ulsan 44919 Republic of Korea
| | - Dong Yeun Jeong
- Division of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science Graduate Program in System Health Science and Engineering Ewha Womans University Seoul 03760 Republic of Korea
| | - Ji Ha Lee
- Chemical Engineering Program Graduate School of Advanced Science and Engineering Hiroshima University Hiroshima 739-8527 Japan
| | - Tomoki Nishimura
- Department of Chemistry and Materials Faculty of Textile Science and Technology Shinshu University Nagano 386-8567 Japan
| | - Shim Sung Lee
- Department of Chemistry and Research Institution of Natural Sciences Gyeongsang National University (GNU) Jinju 52828 Republic of Korea
| | - Sang Kyu Kwak
- Department of Energy Enginerring School of Energy and Chemical Engineering Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST) Ulsan 44919 Republic of Korea
| | - Youngmin You
- Division of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science Graduate Program in System Health Science and Engineering Ewha Womans University Seoul 03760 Republic of Korea
| | - Jong Hwa Jung
- Department of Chemistry and Research Institution of Natural Sciences Gyeongsang National University (GNU) Jinju 52828 Republic of Korea
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24
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Signal processing and generation of bioactive nitric oxide in a model prototissue. Nat Commun 2022; 13:5254. [PMID: 36068269 PMCID: PMC9448809 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-32941-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 08/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
The design and construction of synthetic prototissues from integrated assemblies of artificial protocells is an important challenge for synthetic biology and bioengineering. Here we spatially segregate chemically communicating populations of enzyme-decorated phospholipid-enveloped polymer/DNA coacervate protocells in hydrogel modules to construct a tubular prototissue-like vessel capable of modulating the output of bioactive nitric oxide (NO). By decorating the protocells with glucose oxidase, horseradish peroxidase or catalase and arranging different modules concentrically, a glucose/hydroxyurea dual input leads to logic-gate signal processing under reaction-diffusion conditions, which results in a distinct NO output in the internal lumen of the model prototissue. The NO output is exploited to inhibit platelet activation and blood clot formation in samples of plasma and whole blood located in the internal channel of the device, thereby demonstrating proof-of-concept use of the prototissue-like vessel for anticoagulation applications. Our results highlight opportunities for the development of spatially organized synthetic prototissue modules from assemblages of artificial protocells and provide a step towards the organization of biochemical processes in integrated micro-compartmentalized media, micro-reactor technology and soft functional materials. A challenge for synthetic biology is the design and construction of prototissue. Here, the authors spatially segregate layers of enzyme-decorated coacervate protocells as a model prototissue capable of chemical signal processing and modulating outputs of nitric oxide to inhibit blood clot formation.
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Li C, Zhang X, Yang B, Wei F, Ren Y, Mu W, Han X. Reversible Deformation of Artificial Cell Colonies Triggered by Actin Polymerization for Muscle Behavior Mimicry. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2022; 34:e2204039. [PMID: 35765153 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202204039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Revised: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The use of artificial cells to mimic living tissues is beneficial for understanding the mechanism of interaction among cells. Artificial cells hold immense potential in the field of tissue engineering. Self-powered artificial cells capable of reversible deformation are developed by encapsulating living mitochondria, actins, and methylcellulose. Upon addition of pyruvate molecules, the mitochondria produce adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which acts as an energy source to trigger actin polymerization. The reversible deformation of artificial cells occurs with a spindle shape resulting from the polymerization of actins to form filaments adjacent to the lipid bilayer that subsequently returns to a spherical shape resulting from the depolymerization of actin filaments upon laser irradiation. The linear colonies composed of these artificial cells exhibit collective contraction and relaxation to mimic muscle tissues. At maximum contraction, the long axis of each giant unilamellar vesicle (GUV) is parallel to each other. All the colonies are synchronized in the contraction phase. The deformation of each GUV in the colonies is influenced by its adjacent GUVs. The muscle-like artificial cell colonies described here pave the way to develop sustainably self-powered artificial tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Li
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, 92 West Da-Zhi Street, Harbin, 150001, China
| | - Xiangxiang Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, 92 West Da-Zhi Street, Harbin, 150001, China
| | - Boyu Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, 92 West Da-Zhi Street, Harbin, 150001, China
| | - Feng Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, 92 West Da-Zhi Street, Harbin, 150001, China
| | - Yongshuo Ren
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, 92 West Da-Zhi Street, Harbin, 150001, China
| | - Wei Mu
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, 92 West Da-Zhi Street, Harbin, 150001, China
| | - Xiaojun Han
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, 92 West Da-Zhi Street, Harbin, 150001, China
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Abstract
In recent years, structured phospholipids (SPLs), which are modified phospholipids (PLs), have attracted more attention due to their great potential for application in the field of pharmacy, food, cosmetics, and health. SPLs not only possess enhanced chemical, physical and nutritional properties, but also present superior bioavailability in comparison with other lipid forms, such as triacylglycerols, which make SPLs become more competitive carriers to increase the absorption of the specific fatty acids in the body. Compared with chemical-mediated SPLs, the process of enzyme-mediated SPLs has the advantages of high product variety, high substrate selectivity, and mild operation conditions. Both lipases and phospholipases can be used in the enzymatic production of SPLs, and the main reaction type contains esterification, acidolysis, and transesterification. During the preparation, reaction medium, acyl migration, water content/activity, substrates and enzymes, and some other parameters have significant effects on the production and purity of the desired PLs products. In this paper, the progress in enzymatic modification of PLs over the last 20 years is reviewed. Reaction types and characteristic parameters are summarized in detail and the parameters affecting acyl migration are first discussed to give the inspiration to optimize the enzyme-mediated SPLs preparation. To expand the application of enzyme-mediated SPLs in the future, the prospect of further study on SPLs is also proposed at the end of the paper.
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27
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Kang SG, Kim KY, Cho Y, Jeong DY, Lee JH, Nishimura T, Lee SS, Kwak SK, You Y, Jung JH. Circularly Polarized Luminescence Active Supramolecular Nanotubes Based on Pt(II) Complexes that Undergo Dynamic Morphological Transformation and Helicity Inversion. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.202207310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Seok Gyu Kang
- Gyeongsang National University Department of Chemistry KOREA, REPUBLIC OF
| | - Ka Young Kim
- Gyeongsang National University Department of Chemistry KOREA, REPUBLIC OF
| | - Yumi Cho
- Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology Department of Energy Enginerring KOREA, REPUBLIC OF
| | - Dong Yeun Jeong
- Ewha Womans University Division of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science KOREA, REPUBLIC OF
| | - Ji Ha Lee
- Hiroshima University: Hiroshima Daigaku Chemical Engineering Program KOREA, REPUBLIC OF
| | - Tomoki Nishimura
- Shinshu Daigaku Department of Chemistry and Materials KOREA, REPUBLIC OF
| | - Shim Sung Lee
- Gyeongsang National University Department of Chemistry KOREA, REPUBLIC OF
| | - Sang Kyu Kwak
- Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology Department of Energy Enginerring KOREA, REPUBLIC OF
| | - Youngmin You
- Ewha Womans University Division of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science KOREA, REPUBLIC OF
| | - Jong Hwa Jung
- Gyeongsang National University Department of Chemistry Gyeongsang National University 501 jinjudaero 52828 Jinju KOREA, REPUBLIC OF
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28
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Di Iorio D, Wegner SV. Towards applications of synthetic cells in nanotechnology. Curr Opin Chem Biol 2022; 68:102145. [PMID: 35461027 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2022.102145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2022] [Revised: 03/11/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Synthetic cells, which are assembled anew from well-defined molecular parts, open-up new possibilities for nanotechnological applications due to their reduced complexity and high functionality. In this review, we discuss how synthetic cells are being implemented in different fields ranging from biomedicine to material science. On one hand, synthetic cells can serve as microreactors that house metabolic networks and as therapeutic carriers that directly communicate with living cells. On the other hand, synthetic cells can become active components in a new-generation of materials that process inputs and result in autonomous and adaptive behavior. These early examples highlight the potential impact that synthetic cells will have in future applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniele Di Iorio
- Institute of Physiological Chemistry and Pathobiochemistry, University of Münster, Germany
| | - Seraphine V Wegner
- Institute of Physiological Chemistry and Pathobiochemistry, University of Münster, Germany.
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29
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High-throughput production of functional prototissues capable of producing NO for vasodilation. Nat Commun 2022; 13:2148. [PMID: 35444179 PMCID: PMC9021269 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-29571-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 03/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Bottom-up synthesis of prototissues helps us to understand the internal cellular communications in the natural tissues and their functions, as well as to improve or repair the damaged tissues. The existed prototissues are rarely used to improve the function of living tissues. We demonstrate a methodology to produce spatially programmable prototissues based on the magneto-Archimedes effect in a high-throughput manner. More than 2000 prototissues are produced once within 2 h. Two-component and three-component spatial coded prototissues are fabricated by varying the addition giant unilamellar vesicles order/number, and the magnetic field distributions. Two-step and three-step signal communications in the prototissues are realized using cascade enzyme reactions. More importantly, the two-component prototissues capable of producing nitric oxide cause vasodilation of rat blood vessels in the presence of glucose and hydroxyurea. The tension force decreases 2.59 g, meanwhile the blood vessel relaxation is of 31.2%. Our works pave the path to fabricate complicated programmable prototissues, and hold great potential in the biomedical field.
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30
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Zhang M, Zhang Y, Mu W, Dong M, Han X. In Situ Synthesis of Lipid Analogues Leading to Artificial Cell Growth and Division. CHEMSYSTEMSCHEM 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/syst.202200007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mingrui Zhang
- Harbin Institute of Technology School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering CHINA
| | - Ying Zhang
- Heilongjiang Institute of Technology College of Materials and Chemical Engineering CHINA
| | - Wei Mu
- Harbin Institute of Technology School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering CHINA
| | - Mingdong Dong
- Aarhus Universitet Interdisciplinary Nanosci Ctr iNANO DENMARK
| | - Xiaojun Han
- Harbin Institute of Technology School of Chemical Engineering and Technology No.92, West Da-Zhi Street, Harbin, 150001, China 150001 harbin CHINA
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31
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Lu Y, Allegri G, Huskens J. Vesicle-based artificial cells: materials, construction methods and applications. MATERIALS HORIZONS 2022; 9:892-907. [PMID: 34908080 PMCID: PMC8900604 DOI: 10.1039/d1mh01431e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
The construction of artificial cells with specific cell-mimicking functions helps to explore complex biological processes and cell functions in natural cell systems and provides an insight into the origins of life. Bottom-up methods are widely used for engineering artificial cells based on vesicles by the in vitro assembly of biomimetic materials. In this review, the design of artificial cells with a specific function is discussed, by considering the selection of synthetic materials and construction technologies. First, a range of biomimetic materials for artificial cells is reviewed, including lipid, polymeric and hybrid lipid/copolymer materials. Biomaterials extracted from natural cells are also covered in this part. Then, the formation of microscale, giant unilamellar vesicles (GUVs) is reviewed based on different technologies, including gentle hydration, electro-formation, phase transfer and microfluidic methods. Subsequently, applications of artificial cells based on single vesicles or vesicle networks are addressed for mimicking cell behaviors and signaling processes. Microreactors for synthetic biology and cell-cell communication are highlighted here as well. Finally, current challenges and future trends for the development and applications of artificial cells are described.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yao Lu
- Molecular NanoFabrication Group, Department of Molecules & Materials, MESA+ Institute, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Twente, P.O. Box 217, 7500 AE, Enschede, The Netherlands.
| | - Giulia Allegri
- Molecular NanoFabrication Group, Department of Molecules & Materials, MESA+ Institute, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Twente, P.O. Box 217, 7500 AE, Enschede, The Netherlands.
| | - Jurriaan Huskens
- Molecular NanoFabrication Group, Department of Molecules & Materials, MESA+ Institute, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Twente, P.O. Box 217, 7500 AE, Enschede, The Netherlands.
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32
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Maor I, Koifman N, Kesselman E, Matsanov P, Shumilin I, Harries D, Weitz IS. Molecular self-assembly under nanoconfinement: indigo carmine scroll structures entrapped within polymeric capsules. NANOSCALE 2021; 13:20462-20470. [PMID: 34787624 DOI: 10.1039/d1nr06494k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Molecular self-assembly forms structures of well-defined organization that allow control over material properties, affording many advanced technological applications. Although the self-assembly of molecules is seemingly spontaneous, the structure into which they assemble can be altered by carefully modulating the driving forces. Here we study the self-assembly within the constraints of nanoconfined closed spherical volumes of polymeric nanocapsules, whereby a mixture of polyester-polyether block copolymer and methacrylic acid methyl methacrylate copolymer forms the entrapping capsule shell of nanometric dimensions. We follow the organization of the organic dye indigo carmine that serves as a model building unit due to its tendency to self-assemble into flat lamellar molecular sheets. Analysis of the structures formed inside the nanoconfined space using cryogenic-transmission electron microscopy (cryo-TEM) and cryogenic-electron tomography (cryo-ET) reveal that confinement drives the self-assembly to produce tubular scroll-like structures of the dye. Combined continuum theory and molecular modeling allow us to estimate the material properties of the confined nanosheets, including their elasticity and brittleness. Finally, we comment on the formation mechanism and forces that govern self-assembly under nanoconfinement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inbal Maor
- Department of Biotechnology Engineering, ORT Braude College of Engineering, Karmiel 2161002, Israel.
| | - Na'ama Koifman
- The Technion Center for Electron Microscopy of Soft Matter, The Wolfson Department of Chemical Engineering, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa 3200003, Israel
| | - Ellina Kesselman
- The Technion Center for Electron Microscopy of Soft Matter, The Wolfson Department of Chemical Engineering, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa 3200003, Israel
| | - Pnina Matsanov
- Department of Biotechnology Engineering, ORT Braude College of Engineering, Karmiel 2161002, Israel.
| | - Ilan Shumilin
- Institute of Chemistry, The Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, and The Fritz Haber Research Center, The Hebrew University, Jerusalem 9190401, Israel
| | - Daniel Harries
- Institute of Chemistry, The Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, and The Fritz Haber Research Center, The Hebrew University, Jerusalem 9190401, Israel
| | - Iris Sonia Weitz
- Department of Biotechnology Engineering, ORT Braude College of Engineering, Karmiel 2161002, Israel.
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Wang Y, Xu X, Chen X, Li J. Multifunctional Biomedical Materials Derived from Biological Membranes. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2021; 34:e2107406. [PMID: 34739155 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202107406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2021] [Revised: 10/24/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The delicate structure and fantastic functions of biological membranes are the successful evolutionary results of a long-term natural selection process. Their excellent biocompatibility and biofunctionality are widely utilized to construct multifunctional biomedical materials mainly by directly camouflaging materials with single or mixed biological membranes, decorating or incorporating materials with membrane-derived vesicles (e.g., exosomes), and designing multifunctional materials with the structure/functions of biological membranes. Here, the structure-function relationship of some important biological membranes and biomimetic membranes are discussed, such as various cell membranes, extracellular vesicles, and membranes from bacteria and organelles. Selected literature examples of multifunctional biomaterials derived from biological membranes for biomedical applications, such as drug- and gene-delivery systems, tissue-repair scaffolds, bioimaging, biosensors, and biological detection, are also highlighted. These designed materials show excellent properties, such as long circulation time, disease-targeted therapy, excellent biocompatibility, and selective recognition. Finally, perspectives and challenges associated with the clinical applications of biological-membrane-derived materials are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuemin Wang
- College of Polymer Science and Engineering State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering Sichuan University Chengdu 610065 P. R. China
| | - Xinyuan Xu
- College of Polymer Science and Engineering State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering Sichuan University Chengdu 610065 P. R. China
| | - Xingyu Chen
- College of Polymer Science and Engineering State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering Sichuan University Chengdu 610065 P. R. China
- College of Medicine Southwest Jiaotong University Chengdu 610003 China
| | - Jianshu Li
- College of Polymer Science and Engineering State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering Sichuan University Chengdu 610065 P. R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases West China Hospital of Stomatology Med‐X Center for Materials Sichuan University Chengdu 610041 China
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34
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Cook AB, Clemons TD. Bottom‐Up versus Top‐Down Strategies for Morphology Control in Polymer‐Based Biomedical Materials. ADVANCED NANOBIOMED RESEARCH 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/anbr.202100087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Alexander B. Cook
- Laboratory of Nanotechnology for Precision Medicine Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia Via Morego 30 Genova 16163 Italy
| | - Tristan D. Clemons
- School of Polymer Science and Engineering University of Southern Mississippi Hattiesburg MS 39406 USA
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35
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Yu Y, Dong J, Ma B, Jiang X, Guo C, Liu Z, Chai Y, Wang L, Sun L, Ou L, Li W. Bio-inspired dual-functional phospholipid-poly(acrylic acid) brushes grafted porous poly(vinyl alcohol) beads for selective adsorption of low-density lipoprotein. J Mater Chem B 2021; 9:6364-6376. [PMID: 34296735 DOI: 10.1039/d1tb01220g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Elevated levels of low-density lipoproteins (LDL) are recognized as a crucial indicator of hyperlipidemia (HLP) and lowering of LDL levels represents an effective clinical treatment strategy. Inspired by the conjugation of phospholipid monolayers and the lipid content of the LDL particle, the current study describes the preparation of an innovative hemoperfusion adsorbent. The adsorbent was prepared by attachment of phosphatidyl ethanolamine to poly(acrylic acid) modified poly(vinyl alcohol-co-triallyl isocyanurate) beads (PVA@PAA-PE). The interaction between LDL and adsorbent mimics the lipoprotein microemulsion present in the blood and thus promotes efficient binding with high affinity. In vitro adsorption using serum from patients with HLP revealed that the LDL adsorption of PVA@PAA-PE was 4.44 times higher than that of controls and the removal rate of LDL using PVA@PAA-PE was about twice as high as that of the anti-atherogenic high-density lipoprotein (HDL). In vivo whole blood perfusion demonstrated the superior affinity of PVA@PAA-PE for LDL since LDL concentration was significantly reduced from 10.71 ± 2.36 mmol L-1 to 6.21 ± 1.45 mmol L-1, while the HDL level was not severely reduced (from 0.98 ± 0.12 mmol L-1 to 0.56 ± 0.15 mmol L-1). Additionally, PVA@PAA-PE exhibited excellent hemocompatibility and low cytotoxicity. Therefore, PVA@PAA-PE is a potential adsorbent for whole blood perfusion to treat hyperlipidemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yameng Yu
- Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials, Ministry of Education, College of Life Science, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China.
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36
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Chen Y, Zhang Y, Li M, Liu S, Yang X, Wang K, Mann S, Liu J. Self-immobilization of coacervate droplets by enzyme-mediated hydrogelation. Chem Commun (Camb) 2021; 57:5438-5441. [PMID: 33949484 DOI: 10.1039/d1cc01483h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
An artificial protocell model mimicking stimuli-triggered extracellular matrix formation is demonstrated based on the self-immobilization of coacervate microdroplets. Endogenous enzyme activity within the microdroplets results in the release of Ca2+ ions that trigger hydrogelation throughout the external environment, which in turn mechanically supports and chemically stabilizes the protocells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yufeng Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Key Laboratory for Bio-Nanotechnology and Molecular Engineering of Hunan Province, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, P. R. China.
| | - Yanwen Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Key Laboratory for Bio-Nanotechnology and Molecular Engineering of Hunan Province, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, P. R. China.
| | - Mei Li
- Centre for Protolife Research, Max Planck-Bristol Centre for Minimal Biology, School of Chemistry, University of Bristol, Bristol BS8 1TS, UK, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, P. R. China.
| | - Songyang Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Key Laboratory for Bio-Nanotechnology and Molecular Engineering of Hunan Province, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, P. R. China.
| | - Xiaohai Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Key Laboratory for Bio-Nanotechnology and Molecular Engineering of Hunan Province, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, P. R. China.
| | - Kemin Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Key Laboratory for Bio-Nanotechnology and Molecular Engineering of Hunan Province, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, P. R. China.
| | - Stephen Mann
- Centre for Protolife Research, Max Planck-Bristol Centre for Minimal Biology, School of Chemistry, University of Bristol, Bristol BS8 1TS, UK, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, P. R. China.
| | - Jianbo Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Key Laboratory for Bio-Nanotechnology and Molecular Engineering of Hunan Province, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, P. R. China.
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37
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Abstract
Lipid membranes in cells are fluid structures that undergo constant synthesis, remodeling, fission, and fusion. The dynamic nature of lipid membranes enables their use as adaptive compartments, making them indispensable for all life on Earth. Efforts to create life-like artificial cells will likely involve mimicking the structure and function of lipid membranes to recapitulate fundamental cellular processes such as growth and division. As such, there is considerable interest in chemistry that mimics the functional properties of membranes, with the express intent of recapitulating biological phenomena. We suggest expanding the definition of membrane mimetic chemistry to capture these efforts. In this Perspective, we discuss how membrane mimetic chemistry serves the development of artificial cells. By leveraging recent advances in chemical biology and systems chemistry, we have an opportunity to use simplified chemical and biochemical systems to mimic the remarkable properties of living membranes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob A Vance
- Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California San Diego, California 92093, United States
| | - Neal K Devaraj
- Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California San Diego, California 92093, United States
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38
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Ouyang X, Zhou X, Lai SN, Liu Q, Zheng B. Immobilization of Proteins of Cell Extract to Hydrogel Networks Enhances the Longevity of Cell-Free Protein Synthesis and Supports Gene Networks. ACS Synth Biol 2021; 10:749-755. [PMID: 33784075 DOI: 10.1021/acssynbio.0c00541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Herein, we constructed a new type of hydrogel based artificial cells supporting long-lived protein synthesis, post-translational modification, and gene networks. We constructed the artificial cells by immobilizing the transcription and translation system from E. coli cytoplasmic extract onto the polyacrylamide hydrogel. With the continuous supply of energy and nutrition, the artificial cells were capable of stable protein expression for at least 30 days. Functional proteins which were difficult to produce in vivo, including colicin E1 and urokinase, were synthesized in the artificial cells with high bioactivity. Furthermore, we constructed a sigma factor based genetic oscillator in the artificial cells. The artificial cells not only provide a powerful platform for continuous protein synthesis and convenient design and testing of genetic networks, but also hold great promise for the development of metabolic engineering, drug delivery, and biosensors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaofei Ouyang
- Department of Chemistry, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
| | - Xiaoyu Zhou
- Department of Chemistry, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
| | - Sze Nga Lai
- Department of Chemistry, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
| | - Qi Liu
- Department of Chemistry, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
| | - Bo Zheng
- Department of Chemistry, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
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39
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Abstract
Lung cancer is one of the serious malignant tumors with high morbidity and mortality due to the poor diagnosis and early metastasis. The developing nanotechnology provides novel concepts and research strategies for the lung cancer diagnosis by employing nanomaterials as diagnostic reagents to enhance diagnostic efficiency. This commentary introduces recent progress using nanoparticles for lung cancer diagnosis from two aspects of in vivo and in vitro detection. The challenges and future research perspectives are proposed at the end of the paper.
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40
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Groaz A, Moghimianavval H, Tavella F, Giessen TW, Vecchiarelli AG, Yang Q, Liu AP. Engineering spatiotemporal organization and dynamics in synthetic cells. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS-NANOMEDICINE AND NANOBIOTECHNOLOGY 2020; 13:e1685. [PMID: 33219745 DOI: 10.1002/wnan.1685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2020] [Revised: 10/13/2020] [Accepted: 10/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Constructing synthetic cells has recently become an appealing area of research. Decades of research in biochemistry and cell biology have amassed detailed part lists of components involved in various cellular processes. Nevertheless, recreating any cellular process in vitro in cell-sized compartments remains ambitious and challenging. Two broad features or principles are key to the development of synthetic cells-compartmentalization and self-organization/spatiotemporal dynamics. In this review article, we discuss the current state of the art and research trends in the engineering of synthetic cell membranes, development of internal compartmentalization, reconstitution of self-organizing dynamics, and integration of activities across scales of space and time. We also identify some research areas that could play a major role in advancing the impact and utility of engineered synthetic cells. This article is categorized under: Biology-Inspired Nanomaterials > Lipid-Based Structures Biology-Inspired Nanomaterials > Protein and Virus-Based Structures.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Qiong Yang
- University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Allen P Liu
- University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
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