1
|
Dindo M, Bevilacqua A, Soligo G, Calabrese V, Monti A, Shen AQ, Rosti ME, Laurino P. Chemotactic Interactions Drive Migration of Membraneless Active Droplets. J Am Chem Soc 2024; 146:15965-15976. [PMID: 38620052 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.4c02823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
In nature, chemotactic interactions are ubiquitous and play a critical role in driving the collective behavior of living organisms. Reproducing these interactions in vitro is still a paramount challenge due to the complexity of mimicking and controlling cellular features, such as tangled metabolic networks, cytosolic macromolecular crowding, and cellular migration, on a microorganism size scale. Here, we generate enzymatically active cell-sized droplets able to move freely, and by following a chemical gradient, able to interact with the surrounding droplets in a collective manner. The enzyme within the droplets generates a pH gradient that extends outside the edge of the droplets. We discovered that the external pH gradient triggers droplet migration and controls its directionality, which is selectively toward the neighboring droplets. Hence, by changing the enzyme activity inside the droplet, we tuned the droplet migration speed. Furthermore, we showed that these cellular-like features can facilitate the reconstitution of a simple and linear protometabolic pathway and increase the final reaction product generation. Our work suggests that simple and stable membraneless droplets can reproduce complex biological phenomena, opening new perspectives as bioinspired materials and synthetic biology tools.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mirco Dindo
- Protein Engineering and Evolution Unit, Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University, Onna, Okinawa 904-0412, Japan
| | - Alessandro Bevilacqua
- Protein Engineering and Evolution Unit, Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University, Onna, Okinawa 904-0412, Japan
| | - Giovanni Soligo
- Complex Fluids and Flows Unit, Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University, Onna, Okinawa 904-0412, Japan
| | - Vincenzo Calabrese
- Micro/Bio/Nanofluidics Unit, Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University, Onna, Okinawa 904-0412, Japan
| | - Alessandro Monti
- Complex Fluids and Flows Unit, Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University, Onna, Okinawa 904-0412, Japan
| | - Amy Q Shen
- Micro/Bio/Nanofluidics Unit, Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University, Onna, Okinawa 904-0412, Japan
| | - Marco Edoardo Rosti
- Complex Fluids and Flows Unit, Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University, Onna, Okinawa 904-0412, Japan
| | - Paola Laurino
- Protein Engineering and Evolution Unit, Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University, Onna, Okinawa 904-0412, Japan
- Institute for Protein Research, Osaka University, Suita 565-0871, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
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:e202406094. [PMID: 38743852 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202406094] [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: 03/29/2024] [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.
Collapse
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
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Rieu T, Osypenko A, Lehn JM. Triple Adaptation of Constitutional Dynamic Networks of Imines in Response to Micellar Agents: Internal Uptake-Interfacial Localization-Shape Transition. J Am Chem Soc 2024; 146:9096-9111. [PMID: 38526415 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.3c14200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/26/2024]
Abstract
Understanding the behavior of complex chemical reaction networks and how environmental conditions can modulate their organization as well as the associated outcomes may take advantage of the design of related artificial systems. Microenvironments with defined boundaries are of particular interest for their unique properties and prebiotic significance. Dynamic covalent libraries (DCvLs) and their underlying constitutional dynamic networks (CDNs) have been shown to be appropriate for studying adaptation to several processes, including compartmentalization. However, microcompartments (e.g., micelles) provide specific environments for the selective protection from interfering reactions such as hydrolysis and an enhanced chemical promiscuity due to the interface, governing different processes of network modulation. Different interactions between the micelles and the library constituents lead to dynamic sensing, resulting in different expressions of the network through pattern generation. The constituents integrated into the micelles are protected from hydrolysis and hence preferentially expressed in the network composition at the cost of constitutionally linked members. In the present work, micellar integration was observed for two processes: internal uptake based on hydrophobic forces and interfacial localization relying on attractive electrostatic interactions. The latter drives a complex triple adaptation of the network with feedback on the shape of the self-assembled entity. Our results demonstrate how microcompartments can enforce the expression of constituents of CDNs by reducing the hydrolysis of uptaken members, unravelling processes that govern the response of reactions networks. Such studies open the way toward using DCvLs and CDNs to understand the emergence of complexity within reaction networks by their interactions with microenvironments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tanguy Rieu
- Laboratoire de Chimie Supramoléculaire, Institut de Science et d'Ingénierie Supramoléculaires (ISIS), Université de Strasbourg, 8 allée Gaspard Monge, 67000 Strasbourg, France
| | - Artem Osypenko
- Laboratoire de Chimie Supramoléculaire, Institut de Science et d'Ingénierie Supramoléculaires (ISIS), Université de Strasbourg, 8 allée Gaspard Monge, 67000 Strasbourg, France
| | - Jean-Marie Lehn
- Laboratoire de Chimie Supramoléculaire, Institut de Science et d'Ingénierie Supramoléculaires (ISIS), Université de Strasbourg, 8 allée Gaspard Monge, 67000 Strasbourg, France
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Ranganath VA, Maity I. Artificial Homeostasis Systems Based on Feedback Reaction Networks: Design Principles and Future Promises. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2024; 63:e202318134. [PMID: 38226567 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202318134] [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: 11/28/2023] [Revised: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 01/17/2024]
Abstract
Feedback-controlled chemical reaction networks (FCRNs) are indispensable for various biological processes, such as cellular mechanisms, patterns, and signaling pathways. Through the intricate interplay of many feedback loops (FLs), FCRNs maintain a stable internal cellular environment. Currently, creating minimalistic synthetic cells is the long-term objective of systems chemistry, which is motivated by such natural integrity. The design, kinetic optimization, and analysis of FCRNs to exhibit functions akin to those of a cell still pose significant challenges. Indeed, reaching synthetic homeostasis is essential for engineering synthetic cell components. However, maintaining homeostasis in artificial systems against various agitations is a difficult task. Several biological events can provide us with guidelines for a conceptual understanding of homeostasis, which can be further applicable in designing artificial synthetic systems. In this regard, we organize our review with artificial homeostasis systems driven by FCRNs at different length scales, including homogeneous, compartmentalized, and soft material systems. First, we stretch a quick overview of FCRNs in different molecular and supramolecular systems, which are the essential toolbox for engineering different nonlinear functions and homeostatic systems. Moreover, the existing history of synthetic homeostasis in chemical and material systems and their advanced functions with self-correcting, and regulating properties are also emphasized.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vinay Ambekar Ranganath
- Centre for Nano and Material Sciences, Jain (Deemed-to-be University), Jain Global Campus, Bangalore, 562112, Karnataka, India
| | - Indrajit Maity
- Centre for Nano and Material Sciences, Jain (Deemed-to-be University), Jain Global Campus, Bangalore, 562112, Karnataka, India
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Fu H, Cao N, Zeng W, Liao M, Yao S, Zhou J, Zhang W. Pumping Small Molecules Selectively through an Energy-Assisted Assembling Process at Nonequilibrium States. J Am Chem Soc 2024; 146:3323-3330. [PMID: 38273768 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.3c12228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
In living organisms, precise control over the spatial and temporal distribution of molecules, including pheromones, is crucial. This level of control is equally important for the development of artificial active materials. In this study, we successfully controlled the distribution of small molecules in the system at nonequilibrium states by actively transporting them, even against the apparent concentration gradient, with high selectivity. As a demonstration, in the aqueous solution of acid orange (AO7) and TMC10COOH, we found that AO7 molecules can coassemble with transient anhydride (TMC10CO)2O to form larger assemblies in the presence of chemical fuel 1-ethyl-3-(3-(dimethylamino)propyl) carbodiimide hydrochloride (EDC). This led to a decrease in local free AO7 concentration and caused AO7 molecules from other locations in the solution to move toward the assemblies. Consequently, AO7 accumulates at the location where EDC was injected. By continuously injecting EDC, we could maintain a stable high value of the apparent AO7 concentration at the injection point. We also observed that this process which operated at nonequilibrium states exhibited high selectivity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Huimin Fu
- South China Advanced Institute for Soft Matter Science and Technology, School of Emergent Soft Matter, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Functional and Intelligent Hybrid Materials and Devices, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510640, P. R. China
| | - Nengjie Cao
- South China Advanced Institute for Soft Matter Science and Technology, School of Emergent Soft Matter, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Functional and Intelligent Hybrid Materials and Devices, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510640, P. R. China
| | - Wang Zeng
- National Centre for Inorganic Mass Spectrometry in Shanghai, Shanghai Institute of Ceramics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200050, P. R. China
| | - Min Liao
- South China Advanced Institute for Soft Matter Science and Technology, School of Emergent Soft Matter, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Functional and Intelligent Hybrid Materials and Devices, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510640, P. R. China
| | - Shenglin Yao
- South China Advanced Institute for Soft Matter Science and Technology, School of Emergent Soft Matter, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Functional and Intelligent Hybrid Materials and Devices, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510640, P. R. China
| | - Jiajia Zhou
- South China Advanced Institute for Soft Matter Science and Technology, School of Emergent Soft Matter, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Functional and Intelligent Hybrid Materials and Devices, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510640, P. R. China
| | - Wei Zhang
- South China Advanced Institute for Soft Matter Science and Technology, School of Emergent Soft Matter, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Functional and Intelligent Hybrid Materials and Devices, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510640, P. R. China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Qi C, Ma X, Zeng Q, Huang Z, Zhang S, Deng X, Kong T, Liu Z. Multicompartmental coacervate-based protocell by spontaneous droplet evaporation. Nat Commun 2024; 15:1107. [PMID: 38321061 PMCID: PMC10847435 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-45411-y] [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: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Hierarchical compartmentalization, a hallmark of both primitive and modern cells, enables the concentration and isolation of biomolecules, and facilitates spatial organization of biochemical reactions. Coacervate-based compartments can sequester and recruit a large variety of molecules, making it an attractive protocell model. In this work, we report the spontaneous formation of core-shell cell-sized coacervate-based compartments driven by spontaneous evaporation of a sessile droplet on a thin-oil-coated substrate. Our analysis reveals that such far-from-equilibrium architectures arise from multiple, coupled segregative and associative liquid-liquid phase separation, and are stabilized by stagnation points within the evaporating droplet. The formation of stagnation points results from convective capillary flows induced by the maximum evaporation rate at the liquid-liquid-air contact line. This work provides valuable insights into the spontaneous formation and maintenance of hierarchical compartments under non-equilibrium conditions, offering a glimpse into the real-life scenario.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cheng Qi
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Micro/Nano Optomechatronics Engineering, College of Mechatronics and Control Engineering, Shenzhen University, 518060, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Xudong Ma
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Micro/Nano Optomechatronics Engineering, College of Mechatronics and Control Engineering, Shenzhen University, 518060, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Qi Zeng
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Micro/Nano Optomechatronics Engineering, College of Mechatronics and Control Engineering, Shenzhen University, 518060, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhangwei Huang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Micro/Nano Optomechatronics Engineering, College of Mechatronics and Control Engineering, Shenzhen University, 518060, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Shanshan Zhang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Medicine, Shenzhen University, 518000, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiaokang Deng
- College of Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Shenzhen University, 518000, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Tiantian Kong
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Medicine, Shenzhen University, 518000, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China.
- Department of Urology, Inst Translat Med, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, Shenzhen, China.
| | - Zhou Liu
- College of Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Shenzhen University, 518000, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
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.
Collapse
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
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Lin Z, Beneyton T, Baret JC, Martin N. Coacervate Droplets for Synthetic Cells. SMALL METHODS 2023; 7:e2300496. [PMID: 37462244 DOI: 10.1002/smtd.202300496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Revised: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
The design and construction of synthetic cells - human-made microcompartments that mimic features of living cells - have experienced a real boom in the past decade. While many efforts have been geared toward assembling membrane-bounded compartments, coacervate droplets produced by liquid-liquid phase separation have emerged as an alternative membrane-free compartmentalization paradigm. Here, the dual role of coacervate droplets in synthetic cell research is discussed: encapsulated within membrane-enclosed compartments, coacervates act as surrogates of membraneless organelles ubiquitously found in living cells; alternatively, they can be viewed as crowded cytosol-like chassis for constructing integrated synthetic cells. After introducing key concepts of coacervation and illustrating the chemical diversity of coacervate systems, their physicochemical properties and resulting bioinspired functions are emphasized. Moving from suspensions of free floating coacervates, the two nascent roles of these droplets in synthetic cell research are highlighted: organelle-like modules and cytosol-like templates. Building the discussion on recent studies from the literature, the potential of coacervate droplets to assemble integrated synthetic cells capable of multiple life-inspired functions is showcased. Future challenges that are still to be tackled in the field are finally discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zi Lin
- Université de Bordeaux, CNRS, Centre de Recherche Paul Pascal, UMR5031, 115 avenue du Dr. Schweitzer, 33600, Pessac, France
| | - Thomas Beneyton
- Université de Bordeaux, CNRS, Centre de Recherche Paul Pascal, UMR5031, 115 avenue du Dr. Schweitzer, 33600, Pessac, France
| | - Jean-Christophe Baret
- Université de Bordeaux, CNRS, Centre de Recherche Paul Pascal, UMR5031, 115 avenue du Dr. Schweitzer, 33600, Pessac, France
| | - Nicolas Martin
- Université de Bordeaux, CNRS, Centre de Recherche Paul Pascal, UMR5031, 115 avenue du Dr. Schweitzer, 33600, Pessac, France
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Barriales K, Kassem S, Sementa D, Vidal Ceballos A, Wang T, Khandaker S, Abzalimov RR, Jain A, Elbaum-Garfinkle S, Ulijn RV. Localized and regulated peptide pigment formation inside liquid droplets through confined enzymatic oxidation. Chem Commun (Camb) 2023; 59:14138-14141. [PMID: 37955166 DOI: 10.1039/d3cc04231f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2023]
Abstract
Melanin pigments are found in most life forms, where they are responsible for coloration and ultraviolet (UV) light protection. Natural melanin is a poorly soluble and complex biosynthesis product produced through confined and templated enzymatic oxidation of tyrosine. It has been challenging to create water-soluble synthetic mimics. This study demonstrates the enzymatic synthesis of oxidized phenols confined inside liquid droplets. We use an amphiphilic, bifunctional peptide, DYFR9, that combines a tyrosine tripeptide previously shown to undergo enzymatic oxidation to form peptide pigments with broad absorbance, and polyarginine to facilitate complex coacervation in the presence of ATP. When ATP, DYFR9 are mixed and exposed to tyrosinase, pigmented liquid droplets result, while no appreciable oxidation is observed in the bulk.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kenny Barriales
- Advanced Science Research Center (ASRC) at the Graduate Center, City University of New York (CUNY), 85 St Nicholas Terrace, New York, New York 10031, USA.
- Department of Chemistry, Hunter College, City University of New York, 695 Park Avenue, New York, New York 10065, USA
- Ph.D. Program in Chemistry, The Graduate Center of the City University of New York, New York, New York 10016, USA
| | - Salma Kassem
- Advanced Science Research Center (ASRC) at the Graduate Center, City University of New York (CUNY), 85 St Nicholas Terrace, New York, New York 10031, USA.
| | - Deborah Sementa
- Advanced Science Research Center (ASRC) at the Graduate Center, City University of New York (CUNY), 85 St Nicholas Terrace, New York, New York 10031, USA.
| | - Alfredo Vidal Ceballos
- Advanced Science Research Center (ASRC) at the Graduate Center, City University of New York (CUNY), 85 St Nicholas Terrace, New York, New York 10031, USA.
- Ph.D. Program in Chemistry, The Graduate Center of the City University of New York, New York, New York 10016, USA
- Ph.D. Program in Biochemistry, The Graduate Center of the City University of New York, New York, New York, 10016, USA
| | - Tong Wang
- Advanced Science Research Center (ASRC) at the Graduate Center, City University of New York (CUNY), 85 St Nicholas Terrace, New York, New York 10031, USA.
| | - Shadman Khandaker
- Advanced Science Research Center (ASRC) at the Graduate Center, City University of New York (CUNY), 85 St Nicholas Terrace, New York, New York 10031, USA.
| | - Rinat R Abzalimov
- Advanced Science Research Center (ASRC) at the Graduate Center, City University of New York (CUNY), 85 St Nicholas Terrace, New York, New York 10031, USA.
| | - Ankit Jain
- Ph.D. Program in Chemistry, The Graduate Center of the City University of New York, New York, New York 10016, USA
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Brooklyn College, City University of New York, 2900 Bedford Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11210, USA
- Brooklyn College Cancer Center, Brooklyn College, The City University of New York, 2900 Beford Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11210, USA
- Ph.D. Program in Biochemistry, The Graduate Center of the City University of New York, New York, New York, 10016, USA
| | - Shana Elbaum-Garfinkle
- Advanced Science Research Center (ASRC) at the Graduate Center, City University of New York (CUNY), 85 St Nicholas Terrace, New York, New York 10031, USA.
- Ph.D. Program in Chemistry, The Graduate Center of the City University of New York, New York, New York 10016, USA
- Ph.D. Program in Biochemistry, The Graduate Center of the City University of New York, New York, New York, 10016, USA
| | - Rein V Ulijn
- Advanced Science Research Center (ASRC) at the Graduate Center, City University of New York (CUNY), 85 St Nicholas Terrace, New York, New York 10031, USA.
- Department of Chemistry, Hunter College, City University of New York, 695 Park Avenue, New York, New York 10065, USA
- Ph.D. Program in Chemistry, The Graduate Center of the City University of New York, New York, New York 10016, USA
- Ph.D. Program in Biochemistry, The Graduate Center of the City University of New York, New York, New York, 10016, USA
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Chen X, Soria-Carrera H, Zozulia O, Boekhoven J. Suppressing catalyst poisoning in the carbodiimide-fueled reaction cycle. Chem Sci 2023; 14:12653-12660. [PMID: 38020366 PMCID: PMC10646924 DOI: 10.1039/d3sc04281b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
In biology, cells regulate the function of molecules using catalytic reaction cycles that convert reagents with high chemical potential (fuel) to waste molecules. Inspired by biology, synthetic analogs of such chemical reaction cycles have been devised, and a widely used catalytic reaction cycle uses carboxylates as catalysts to accelerate the hydration of carbodiimides. The cycle is versatile and easy to use, so it is widely applied to regulate motors, pumps, self-assembly, and phase separation. However, the cycle suffers from side reactions, especially the formation of N-acylurea. In catalytic reaction cycles, side reactions are disastrous as they decrease the fuel's efficiency and, more importantly, destroy the molecular machinery or assembling molecules. Therefore, this work tested how to suppress N-acylurea by screening precursor concentration, its structure, carbodiimide structure, additives, temperature, and pH. It turned out that the combination of low temperature, low pH, and 10% pyridine as a fraction of the fuel could significantly suppress the N-acylurea side product and keep the reaction cycle highly effective to regulate successful assembly. We anticipate that our work will provide guidelines for using carbodiimide-fueled reaction cycles to regulate molecular function and how to choose optimal conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyao Chen
- Department of Chemistry, School of Natural Science, Technical University of Munich Lichtenbergstrasse 4 85748 Garching bei München Germany
| | - Héctor Soria-Carrera
- Department of Chemistry, School of Natural Science, Technical University of Munich Lichtenbergstrasse 4 85748 Garching bei München Germany
| | - Oleksii Zozulia
- Department of Chemistry, School of Natural Science, Technical University of Munich Lichtenbergstrasse 4 85748 Garching bei München Germany
| | - Job Boekhoven
- Department of Chemistry, School of Natural Science, Technical University of Munich Lichtenbergstrasse 4 85748 Garching bei München Germany
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Cho Y, Jacobs WM. Nonequilibrium interfacial properties of chemically driven fluids. J Chem Phys 2023; 159:154101. [PMID: 37843057 DOI: 10.1063/5.0166824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Chemically driven fluids can demix to form condensed droplets that exhibit phase behaviors not observed at equilibrium. In particular, nonequilibrium interfacial properties can emerge when the chemical reactions are driven differentially between the interior and exterior of the phase-separated droplets. Here, we use a minimal model to study changes in the interfacial tension between coexisting phases away from equilibrium. Simulations of both droplet nucleation and interface roughness indicate that the nonequilibrium interfacial tension can either be increased or decreased relative to its equilibrium value, depending on whether the driven chemical reactions are accelerated or decelerated within the droplets. Finally, we show that these observations can be understood using a predictive theory based on an effective thermodynamic equilibrium.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yongick Cho
- Department of Chemistry, Princeton University, Princeton, New Jersey 08544, USA
| | - William M Jacobs
- Department of Chemistry, Princeton University, Princeton, New Jersey 08544, USA
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Bergmann AM, Bauermann J, Bartolucci G, Donau C, Stasi M, Holtmannspötter AL, Jülicher F, Weber CA, Boekhoven J. Liquid spherical shells are a non-equilibrium steady state of active droplets. Nat Commun 2023; 14:6552. [PMID: 37848445 PMCID: PMC10582082 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-42344-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Liquid-liquid phase separation yields spherical droplets that eventually coarsen to one large, stable droplet governed by the principle of minimal free energy. In chemically fueled phase separation, the formation of phase-separating molecules is coupled to a fuel-driven, non-equilibrium reaction cycle. It thus yields dissipative structures sustained by a continuous fuel conversion. Such dissipative structures are ubiquitous in biology but are poorly understood as they are governed by non-equilibrium thermodynamics. Here, we bridge the gap between passive, close-to-equilibrium, and active, dissipative structures with chemically fueled phase separation. We observe that spherical, active droplets can undergo a morphological transition into a liquid, spherical shell. We demonstrate that the mechanism is related to gradients of short-lived droplet material. We characterize how far out of equilibrium the spherical shell state is and the chemical power necessary to sustain it. Our work suggests alternative avenues for assembling complex stable morphologies, which might already be exploited to form membraneless organelles by cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexander M Bergmann
- School of Natural Sciences, Department of Chemistry, Technical University of Munich, Lichtenbergstrasse 4, 85748, Garching, Germany
| | - Jonathan Bauermann
- Max Planck Institute for the Physics of Complex Systems, Nöthnitzer Strasse 38, 01187, Dresden, Germany
- Center for Systems Biology Dresden, Pfotenhauerstrasse 108, 01307, Dresden, Germany
| | - Giacomo Bartolucci
- Max Planck Institute for the Physics of Complex Systems, Nöthnitzer Strasse 38, 01187, Dresden, Germany
- Center for Systems Biology Dresden, Pfotenhauerstrasse 108, 01307, Dresden, Germany
| | - Carsten Donau
- School of Natural Sciences, Department of Chemistry, Technical University of Munich, Lichtenbergstrasse 4, 85748, Garching, Germany
| | - Michele Stasi
- School of Natural Sciences, Department of Chemistry, Technical University of Munich, Lichtenbergstrasse 4, 85748, Garching, Germany
| | - Anna-Lena Holtmannspötter
- School of Natural Sciences, Department of Chemistry, Technical University of Munich, Lichtenbergstrasse 4, 85748, Garching, Germany
| | - Frank Jülicher
- Max Planck Institute for the Physics of Complex Systems, Nöthnitzer Strasse 38, 01187, Dresden, Germany
- Center for Systems Biology Dresden, Pfotenhauerstrasse 108, 01307, Dresden, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence Physics of Life, Technical University of Dresden, 01307, Dresden, Germany
| | - Christoph A Weber
- Faculty of Mathematics, Natural Sciences, and Materials Engineering: Institute of Physics, University of Augsburg, Universitätsstrasse 1, 86159, Augsburg, Germany.
| | - Job Boekhoven
- School of Natural Sciences, Department of Chemistry, Technical University of Munich, Lichtenbergstrasse 4, 85748, Garching, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Späth F, Maier AS, Stasi M, Bergmann AM, Halama K, Wenisch M, Rieger B, Boekhoven J. The Role of Chemically Innocent Polyanions in Active, Chemically Fueled Complex Coacervate Droplets. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2023; 62:e202309318. [PMID: 37549224 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202309318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2023] [Revised: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/09/2023]
Abstract
Complex coacervation describes the liquid-liquid phase separation of oppositely charged polymers. Active coacervates are droplets in which one of the electrolyte's affinity is regulated by chemical reactions. These droplets are particularly interesting because they are tightly regulated by reaction kinetics. For example, they serve as a model for membraneless organelles that are also often regulated by biochemical transformations such as post-translational modifications. They are also a great protocell model or could be used to synthesize life-they spontaneously emerge in response to reagents, compete, and decay when all nutrients have been consumed. However, the role of the unreactive building blocks, e.g., the polymeric compounds, is poorly understood. Here, we show the important role of the chemically innocent, unreactive polyanion of our chemically fueled coacervation droplets. We show that the polyanion drastically influences the resulting droplets' life cycle without influencing the chemical reaction cycle-either they are very dynamic or have a delayed dissolution. Additionally, we derive a mechanistic understanding of our observations and show how additives and rational polymer design help to create the desired coacervate emulsion life cycles.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fabian Späth
- Department of Chemistry, School of Natural Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Lichtenbergstrasse 4, 85748, Garching, Germany
| | - Anton S Maier
- WACKER-Chair of Macromolecular Chemistry, Catalysis Research Center, Technical University of Munich, Lichtenbergstrasse 4, 85748, Garching, Germany
| | - Michele Stasi
- Department of Chemistry, School of Natural Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Lichtenbergstrasse 4, 85748, Garching, Germany
| | - Alexander M Bergmann
- Department of Chemistry, School of Natural Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Lichtenbergstrasse 4, 85748, Garching, Germany
| | - Kerstin Halama
- WACKER-Chair of Macromolecular Chemistry, Catalysis Research Center, Technical University of Munich, Lichtenbergstrasse 4, 85748, Garching, Germany
| | - Monika Wenisch
- Department of Chemistry, School of Natural Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Lichtenbergstrasse 4, 85748, Garching, Germany
| | - Bernhard Rieger
- WACKER-Chair of Macromolecular Chemistry, Catalysis Research Center, Technical University of Munich, Lichtenbergstrasse 4, 85748, Garching, Germany
| | - Job Boekhoven
- Department of Chemistry, School of Natural Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Lichtenbergstrasse 4, 85748, Garching, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Häfner G, Müller M. Reaction-driven assembly: controlling changes in membrane topology by reaction cycles. SOFT MATTER 2023; 19:7281-7292. [PMID: 37605887 DOI: 10.1039/d3sm00876b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/23/2023]
Abstract
Chemical reaction cycles are prototypical examples how to drive systems out of equilibrium and introduce novel, life-like properties into soft-matter systems. We report simulations of amphiphilic molecules in aqueous solution. The molecule's head group is permanently hydrophilic, whereas the reaction cycle switches the molecule's tail from hydrophilic (precursor) to hydrophobic (amphiphile) and vice versa. The reaction cycle leads to an arrest in coalescence and results in uniform vesicle sizes that can be controlled by the reaction rate. Using a continuum description and particle-based simulation, we study the scaling of the vesicle size with the reaction rate. The chemically active vesicles are inflated by precursor, imparting tension onto the membrane and, for specific parameters, stabilize pores.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gregor Häfner
- Institute for Theoretical Physics, Georg-August University, Friedrich-Hund-Platz 1, 37077 Göttingen, Germany.
- Max Planck School Matter to Life, Jahnstraße 29, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Marcus Müller
- Institute for Theoretical Physics, Georg-August University, Friedrich-Hund-Platz 1, 37077 Göttingen, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Kubota R, Hiroi T, Ikuta Y, Liu Y, Hamachi I. Visualizing Formation and Dynamics of a Three-Dimensional Sponge-like Network of a Coacervate in Real Time. J Am Chem Soc 2023; 145:18316-18328. [PMID: 37562059 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.3c03793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/12/2023]
Abstract
Coacervates, which are formed by liquid-liquid phase separation, have been extensively explored as models for synthetic cells and membraneless organelles, so their in-depth structural analysis is crucial. However, both the inner structure dynamics and formation mechanism of coacervates remain elusive. Herein, we demonstrate real-time confocal observation of a three-dimensional sponge-like network in a dipeptide-based coacervate. In situ generation of the dipeptide allowed us to capture the emergence of the sponge-like network via unprecedented membrane folding of vesicle-shaped intermediates. We also visualized dynamic fluctuation of the network, including reversible engagement/disengagement of cross-links and a stochastic network kissing event. Photoinduced transient formation of a multiphase coacervate was achieved with a thermally responsive phase transition. Our findings expand the fundamental understanding of synthetic coacervates and provide opportunities to manipulate their physicochemical properties by engineering the inner network for potential applications in development of artificial cells and life-like material fabrication.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ryou Kubota
- Department of Synthetic Chemistry and Biological Chemistry, Graduate School of Engineering, Kyoto University, Katsura, Nishikyo-ku, Kyoto 615-8510, Japan
| | - Taro Hiroi
- Department of Synthetic Chemistry and Biological Chemistry, Graduate School of Engineering, Kyoto University, Katsura, Nishikyo-ku, Kyoto 615-8510, Japan
| | - Yuriki Ikuta
- Department of Synthetic Chemistry and Biological Chemistry, Graduate School of Engineering, Kyoto University, Katsura, Nishikyo-ku, Kyoto 615-8510, Japan
| | - Yuchong Liu
- Department of Synthetic Chemistry and Biological Chemistry, Graduate School of Engineering, Kyoto University, Katsura, Nishikyo-ku, Kyoto 615-8510, Japan
| | - Itaru Hamachi
- Department of Synthetic Chemistry and Biological Chemistry, Graduate School of Engineering, Kyoto University, Katsura, Nishikyo-ku, Kyoto 615-8510, Japan
- JST-ERATO, Hamachi Innovative Molecular Technology for Neuroscience, Kyoto University, Nishikyo-ku, Katsura 615-8530, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Chen X, Würbser MA, Boekhoven J. Chemically Fueled Supramolecular Materials. ACCOUNTS OF MATERIALS RESEARCH 2023; 4:416-426. [PMID: 37256081 PMCID: PMC10226104 DOI: 10.1021/accountsmr.2c00244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2022] [Revised: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
In biology, the function of many molecules is regulated through nonequilibrium chemical reaction cycles. The prototypical example is the phosphorylation of an amino acid in an enzyme which induces a functional change, e.g., it folds or unfolds, assembles or disassembles, or binds a substrate. Such phosphorylation does not occur spontaneously but requires a phosphorylating agent with high chemical potential (for example, adenosine triphosphate (ATP)) to be converted into a molecule with lower chemical potential (adenosine diphosphate (ADP)). When this energy is used to regulate an assembly, we speak of chemically fueled assemblies; i.e., the molecule with high potential, the fuel, is used to regulate a self-assembly process. For example, the binding of guanosine triphosphate (GTP) to tubulin induces self-assembly. The bound GTP is hydrolyzed to guanosine diphosphate (GDP) upon assembly, which induces tubulin disassembly. The result is a dynamic assembly endowed with unique characteristics, such as time-dependent behavior and the ability to self-heal. These intriguing, unique properties have inspired supramolecular chemists to create similar chemically fueled molecular assemblies from the bottom up. While examples have been designed, they remain scarce partly because chemically fueled reaction cycles are rare and often complex. Thus, we recently developed a carbodiimide-driven reaction cycle that is versatile and easy to use, quantitatively understood, and does not suffer from side reactions. In the reaction cycle, a carboxylate precursor reacts with a carbodiimide to form an activated species like an anhydride or ester. The activated state reacts with water and thereby reverts to its precursor state; i.e., the activated state is deactivated. Effectively, the precursor catalyzes carbodiimides' conversion into waste and forms a transient activated state. We designed building blocks to regulate a range of assemblies and supramolecular materials at the expense of carbodiimide fuel. The simplicity and versatility of the reaction cycles have democratized and popularized the field of chemically fueled assemblies. In this Account, we describe what we have "learned" on our way. We introduce the field exemplified by biological nonequilibrium self-assembly. We describe the design of the carbodiimide-driven reaction cycle. Using examples from our group and others, we offer design rules for the building block's structure and strategies to create the desired morphology or supramolecular materials. The discussed morphologies include fibers, colloids, crystals, and oil- and coacervate-based droplets. We then demonstrate how these assemblies form supramolecular materials with unique material properties like the ability to self-heal. Besides, we discuss the concept of reciprocal coupling in which the assembly exerts feedback on its reaction cycle and we also offer examples of such feedback mechanisms. Finally, we close the Account with a discussion and an outlook on this field. This Account aims to provide our fundamental understanding and facilitate further progress toward conceptually new supramolecular materials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyao Chen
- Department
of Chemistry, School of Natural Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Lichtenbergstrasse 4, 85748 Garching bei München, Germany
| | - Michaela A. Würbser
- Department
of Chemistry, School of Natural Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Lichtenbergstrasse 4, 85748 Garching bei München, Germany
| | - Job Boekhoven
- Department
of Chemistry, School of Natural Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Lichtenbergstrasse 4, 85748 Garching bei München, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Fraccia TP, Martin N. Non-enzymatic oligonucleotide ligation in coacervate protocells sustains compartment-content coupling. Nat Commun 2023; 14:2606. [PMID: 37160869 PMCID: PMC10169843 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-38163-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Modern cells are complex chemical compartments tightly regulated by an underlying DNA-encoded program. Achieving a form of coupling between molecular content, chemical reactions, and chassis in synthetic compartments represents a key step to the assembly of evolvable protocells but remains challenging. Here, we design coacervate droplets that promote non-enzymatic oligonucleotide polymerization and that restructure as a result of the reaction dynamics. More specifically, we rationally exploit complexation between end-reactive oligonucleotides able to stack into long physical polymers and a cationic azobenzene photoswitch to produce three different phases-soft solids, liquid crystalline or isotropic coacervates droplets-each of them having a different impact on the reaction efficiency. Dynamical modulation of coacervate assembly and dissolution via trans-cis azobenzene photo-isomerization is used to demonstrate cycles of light-actuated oligonucleotide ligation. Remarkably, changes in the population of polynucleotides during polymerization induce phase transitions due to length-based DNA self-sorting to produce multiphase coacervates. Overall, by combining a tight reaction-structure coupling and environmental responsiveness, our reactive coacervates provide a general route to the non-enzymatic synthesis of polynucleotides and pave the way to the emergence of a primitive compartment-content coupling in membrane-free protocells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tommaso P Fraccia
- Institut Pierre-Gilles de Gennes, Chimie Biologie et Innovation, UMR 8231, ESPCI Paris, PSL University, CNRS, 6 rue Jean Calvin, 75005, Paris, France.
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milano, 20133, Milano, Italy.
| | - Nicolas Martin
- Univ. Bordeaux, CNRS, Centre de Recherche Paul Pascal, UMR 5031, 115 avenue du Dr. Schweitzer, 33600, Pessac, France.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Illmann MD, Schäfl L, Drees F, Hartmann L, Schmidt S. Glycan-Presenting Coacervates Derived from Charged Poly(active esters): Preparation, Phase Behavior, and Lectin Capture. Biomacromolecules 2023. [PMID: 37133885 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.3c00046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
This study presents the preparation and phase behavior of glycan-functionalized polyelectrolytes for capturing carbohydrate-binding proteins and bacteria in liquid condensate droplets. The droplets are formed by complex coacervation of poly(active ester)-derived polyanions and polycations. This approach allows for a straightforward modular introduction of charged motifs and specifically interacting units; mannose and galactose oligomers are used here as first examples. The introduction of carbohydrates has a notable effect on the phase separation and the critical salt concentration, potentially by reducing the charge density. Two mannose binding species, concanavalin A (ConA) and Escherichia coli, are shown to not only specifically bind to mannose-functionalized coacervates but also to some degree to unfunctionalized, carbohydrate-free coacervates. This suggests non-carbohydrate-specific charge-charge interactions between the protein/bacteria and the droplets. However, when mannose interactions are inhibited or when non-binding galactose-functionalized polymers are used, interactions are significantly weakened. This confirms specific mannose-mediated binding functionalization and suggests that introducing carbohydrates reduces non-specific charge-charge interactions by a so far unidentified mechanism. Overall, the presented route toward glycan-presenting polyelectrolytes enables new functional liquid condensate droplets with specific biomolecular interactions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michele Denise Illmann
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Macromolecular Chemistry, Heinrich-Heine-Universität Düsseldorf, Universitätsstr. 1, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Lea Schäfl
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Macromolecular Chemistry, Heinrich-Heine-Universität Düsseldorf, Universitätsstr. 1, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Felicitas Drees
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Macromolecular Chemistry, Heinrich-Heine-Universität Düsseldorf, Universitätsstr. 1, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
- Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry, Albert-Ludwigs-Universität Freiburg, Stefan-Meier-Str. 31, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Laura Hartmann
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Macromolecular Chemistry, Heinrich-Heine-Universität Düsseldorf, Universitätsstr. 1, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
- Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry, Albert-Ludwigs-Universität Freiburg, Stefan-Meier-Str. 31, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Stephan Schmidt
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Macromolecular Chemistry, Heinrich-Heine-Universität Düsseldorf, Universitätsstr. 1, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
- Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry, Albert-Ludwigs-Universität Freiburg, Stefan-Meier-Str. 31, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Chen X, Chen EQ, Yang S. Multiphase Coacervation of Polyelectrolytes Driven by Asymmetry of Charged Sequence. Macromolecules 2022. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.macromol.2c01205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Xu Chen
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, Key Laboratory of Polymer Chemistry and Physics of Ministry of Education, Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Peking University, Beijing100871, China
| | - Er-Qiang Chen
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, Key Laboratory of Polymer Chemistry and Physics of Ministry of Education, Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Peking University, Beijing100871, China
| | - Shuang Yang
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, Key Laboratory of Polymer Chemistry and Physics of Ministry of Education, Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Peking University, Beijing100871, China
| |
Collapse
|