1
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Fielden SDP. Kinetically Controlled and Nonequilibrium Assembly of Block Copolymers in Solution. J Am Chem Soc 2024; 146:18781-18796. [PMID: 38967256 PMCID: PMC11258791 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.4c03314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2024] [Revised: 06/21/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024]
Abstract
Covalent polymers are versatile macromolecules that have found widespread use in society. Contemporary methods of polymerization have made it possible to construct sequence polymers, including block copolymers, with high precision. Such copolymers assemble in solution when the blocks have differing solubilities. This produces nano- and microparticles of various shapes and sizes. While it is straightforward to draw an analogy between such amphiphilic block copolymers and phospholipids, these two classes of molecules show quite different assembly characteristics. In particular, block copolymers often assemble under kinetic control, thus producing nonequilibrium structures. This leads to a rich variety of behaviors being observed in block copolymer assembly, such as pathway dependence (e.g., thermal history), nonergodicity and responsiveness. The dynamics of polymer assemblies can be readily controlled using changes in environmental conditions and/or integrating functional groups situated on polymers with external chemical reactions. This perspective highlights that kinetic control is both pervasive and a useful attribute in the mechanics of block copolymer assembly. Recent examples are highlighted in order to show that toggling between static and dynamic behavior can be used to generate, manipulate and dismantle nonequilibrium states. New methods to control the kinetics of block copolymer assembly will provide endless unanticipated applications in materials science, biomimicry and medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen D. P. Fielden
- School of Chemistry, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, United
Kingdom
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2
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Koball A, Obst F, Gaitzsch J, Voit B, Appelhans D. Boosting Microfluidic Enzymatic Cascade Reactions with pH-Responsive Polymersomes by Spatio-Chemical Activity Control. SMALL METHODS 2024:e2400282. [PMID: 38989686 DOI: 10.1002/smtd.202400282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2024] [Revised: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024]
Abstract
Microfluidic flow reactors permit the implementation of sensitive biocatalysts in polymeric environments (e.g., hydrogel dots), mimicking nature through the use of diverse microstructures within defined confinements. However, establishing complex hybrid structures to mimic biological processes and functions under continuous flow with optimal utilization of all components involved in the reaction process represents a significant scientific challenge. To achieve spatial, chemical, and temporal control for any microfluidic application, compartmentalization is required, as well as the unification of different sensitive compartments in the reaction chamber for the microfluidic flow design. This study presents a self-regulating microfluidic system fabricated by a sequential photostructuring process with an intermediate chemical process step to realize pH-sensitive hybrid structures for the fabrication of a microfluidic double chamber reactor for controlled enzymatic cascade reaction (ECR). The key point is the adaptation and retention of the function of pH-responsive horseradish peroxidase-loaded polymersomes in a microfluidic chip under continuous flow. ECR is successfully triggered and controlled by an interplay between glucose oxidase-converted glucose, the membrane state of pH-responsive polymersomes, and other parameters (e.g., flow rate and fluid composition). This study establishes a promising noninvasive regulatory platform for extended spatio-chemical control of current and future ECR and other cascade reaction systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Koball
- Leibniz-Institut für Polymerforschung Dresden e.V., Hohe Straße 6, D-01069, Dresden, Germany
- Technische Universität Dresden, Fakultät Chemie und Lebensmittelchemie, Organische Chemie der Polymere, D-01062, Dresden, Germany
| | - Franziska Obst
- Leibniz-Institut für Polymerforschung Dresden e.V., Hohe Straße 6, D-01069, Dresden, Germany
- Technische Universität Dresden, Institut für Halbleiter- und Mikrosystemtechnik, Nöthnitzer Straße 64, D-01187, Dresden, Germany
| | - Jens Gaitzsch
- Leibniz-Institut für Polymerforschung Dresden e.V., Hohe Straße 6, D-01069, Dresden, Germany
| | - Brigitte Voit
- Leibniz-Institut für Polymerforschung Dresden e.V., Hohe Straße 6, D-01069, Dresden, Germany
- Technische Universität Dresden, Fakultät Chemie und Lebensmittelchemie, Organische Chemie der Polymere, D-01062, Dresden, Germany
| | - Dietmar Appelhans
- Leibniz-Institut für Polymerforschung Dresden e.V., Hohe Straße 6, D-01069, Dresden, Germany
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3
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Reyes CA, Lee HJ, Karanovic C, Picazo E. Development and characterization of amino donor-acceptor Stenhouse adducts. Nat Commun 2024; 15:5533. [PMID: 38951197 PMCID: PMC11217284 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-49808-7] [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: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 07/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Donor-acceptor Stenhouse adducts (DASAs) are molecular photoswitches spurring wide interest because of their dynamic photophysical properties, complex photoswitching mechanism, and diverse applications. Despite breakthroughs in modularity for the donor, acceptor, and triene compartments, the backbone heteroatom remains static due to synthetic challenges. We provide a predictive tool and sought-after strategy to vary the heteroatom, introduce amino DASA photoswitches, and analyze backbone heteroatom effects on photophysical properties. Amino DASA synthesis is enabled by aza-Piancatelli rearrangements on pyrrole substrates, imparting an aromaticity-breaking rearrangement that capitalizes on nitrogen's additional bonding orbital and the inductive properties of sulfonyl groups. Amino DASA structure is confirmed by single crystal X-ray diffraction, the photochromic properties are characterized, and the photoswitch isomerization is investigated. Overall, the discovered pyrrole rearrangement enables the study of the DASA backbone heteroatom compartment and furthers our insight into the structure-property relationship of this complex photoswitch.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cesar A Reyes
- Department of Chemistry, Loker Hydrocarbon Research Institute, University of Southern California, 837 Bloom Walk, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Hye Joon Lee
- Department of Chemistry, Loker Hydrocarbon Research Institute, University of Southern California, 837 Bloom Walk, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Connie Karanovic
- Department of Chemistry, Loker Hydrocarbon Research Institute, University of Southern California, 837 Bloom Walk, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Elias Picazo
- Department of Chemistry, Loker Hydrocarbon Research Institute, University of Southern California, 837 Bloom Walk, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
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4
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Philip AM, Krogh ME, Laursen BW. Robust Red-Absorbing Donor-Acceptor Stenhouse Adduct Photoswitches. Chemistry 2024; 30:e202400621. [PMID: 38536207 DOI: 10.1002/chem.202400621] [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: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
Donor-Acceptor Stenhouse Adduct (DASA), a class of push-pull negative photochrome, has received large interest lately owing to its versatile synthesis, modularity and excellent photoswitching in solutions. From a technological perspective, it is imperative for this class of photoswitches to work robustly in solid state, e. g. thin films. We feature a molecular framework for the optimized design of DASAs by introducing a new thioindoline donor (D3) and assessing its performance against known 2nd generation indoline-based donors. The systematic structure-function investigations suggest that to achieve robust reversible photoswitching, a ground state with low charge separation is desired. DASAs with stronger electron donors and a larger charge separation in the ground state result in a low population of the photothermalstationary state (PTSS) and reduced photostability. The DASA with thioindoline donor (D3A3) seems to be a special case among the donor series as it causes a red shift (ca. 15 nm), however with less polarization of the ground state and marginally better photostability as compared to the unsubstituted 2-methyl indoline (D1A3). We also emphasize the consideration of the key additional factors that can modulate the red-light photoswitching properties of DASA chromophores in polymer thin films, which might not be dominant in homogenous solution state.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abbey M Philip
- Nano-Science Center & Department of Chemistry, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, 2100, Denmark
| | - Marie E Krogh
- Nano-Science Center & Department of Chemistry, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, 2100, Denmark
| | - Bo W Laursen
- Nano-Science Center & Department of Chemistry, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, 2100, Denmark
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5
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Wang Q, Xu H, Qi Z, Mei J, Tian H, Qu DH. Dynamic Near-Infrared Circularly Polarized Luminescence Encoded by Transient Supramolecular Chiral Assemblies. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2024:e202407385. [PMID: 38736176 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202407385] [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: 04/18/2024] [Revised: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024]
Abstract
Circularly polarized luminescence (CPL) is promising for applications in many fields. However, most systems involving CPL are within the visible range; near-infrared (NIR) CPL-active materials, especially those that exhibit high glum values and can be controlled spatially and temporally, are rare. Herein, dynamic NIR-CPL with a glum value of 2.5×10-2 was achieved through supramolecular coassembly and energy-transfer strategies. The chiral assemblies formed by the coassembly between adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and a pyrene derivative exhibited a red CPL signal (glum of 10-3). The further introduction of sulfo-cyanine5 resulted in a energy-transfer process, which not only led to the NIR CPL but also increased the glum value to 10-2. Temporal control of these chiral assemblies was realized by introducing alkaline phosphatase to fabricate a biomimetic enzyme-catalyzed network, allowing the dynamic NIR CPL signal to be turned on. Based on these enzyme-regulated temporally controllable dynamic CPL-active chiral assemblies, a multilevel information encryption system was further developed. This study provides a pioneering example for the construction of dynamic NIR CPL materials with the ability to perform temporal control via the supramolecular assembly strategy, which is expected to aid in the design of supramolecular complex systems that more closely resemble natural biological systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Wang
- Key Laboratory for Advanced Materials, Joint International Research Laboratory of Precision Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Feringa Nobel Prize Scientist Joint Research Center, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, 130 Meilong Road, Shanghai, 200237, China
| | - Hanren Xu
- Key Laboratory for Advanced Materials, Joint International Research Laboratory of Precision Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Feringa Nobel Prize Scientist Joint Research Center, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, 130 Meilong Road, Shanghai, 200237, China
| | - Zhen Qi
- Key Laboratory for Advanced Materials, Joint International Research Laboratory of Precision Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Feringa Nobel Prize Scientist Joint Research Center, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, 130 Meilong Road, Shanghai, 200237, China
| | - Ju Mei
- Key Laboratory for Advanced Materials, Joint International Research Laboratory of Precision Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Feringa Nobel Prize Scientist Joint Research Center, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, 130 Meilong Road, Shanghai, 200237, China
| | - He Tian
- Key Laboratory for Advanced Materials, Joint International Research Laboratory of Precision Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Feringa Nobel Prize Scientist Joint Research Center, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, 130 Meilong Road, Shanghai, 200237, China
| | - Da-Hui Qu
- Key Laboratory for Advanced Materials, Joint International Research Laboratory of Precision Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Feringa Nobel Prize Scientist Joint Research Center, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, 130 Meilong Road, Shanghai, 200237, China
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6
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Fang L, Lin Z, Zhang Y, Ye B, Li J, Ran Q, Wang X, Yang M, Yuan Z, Lin X, Yu D, Chen X, Li Q. Robust, Ultrafast and Reversible Photoswitching in Bulk Polymers Enabled by Octupolar Molecule Design. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2024; 63:e202402349. [PMID: 38349340 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202402349] [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: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
Improving the photoswitching rate and robustness of photochromic molecules in bulk solids is paramount for practical applications but remains an on-going challenge. Here, we introduce an octupolar design paradigm to develop a new family of visible light organic photoswitches, namely multi-branched octupolar Stenhouse Adducts (MOPSAs) featuring a C3-symmetrical A3-(D-core) architecture with a dipolar donor-acceptor (D-A) photochrome in each branch. Our design couples multi-dimensional geometric and electronic effects of MOPSAs to enable robust ultrafast reversible photoswitching in bulk polymers. Specifically, the optimal MOPSA (4 wt %) in commercial polyurethane films accomplishes nearly 100 % discoloration in 6 s under visible light with ∼ 100 % thermal-recovery in 17.4 s at 60 °C, while the acquired kinetics constants are 3∼7 times that of dipolar DASA counterpart and 1∼2 orders of magnitude higher than those of reported DASAs in polymers. Importantly, the MOPSA-doped polymer films sustain 500 discoloration/recovery cycles with slow degradation, superior to the existing DASAs in polymers (≤30 cycles). We discover that multi-dipolar coupling in MOPSA enables enhanced polarization and electron delocalization, promoting the rate-determining thermal cyclization, while the branched and non-planar geometry of MOPSA induces large free volume to facilitate the isomerization. This design can be extended to develop spiropyran or azobenzene-based ultrafast photochromic films. The superior photoswitching performance of MOPSAs together with their high-yield and scalable synthesis and facile film processing inspires us to explore their versatile uses as smart inks or labels for time-temperature indicators, optical logic encryption and multi-levelled data encryption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Long Fang
- Key Laboratory for Polymeric Composite and Functional Materials of Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of High Performance Polymer-based Composites of Guangdong Province, GBRCE for Functional Molecular Engineering, School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Ziwei Lin
- Key Laboratory for Polymeric Composite and Functional Materials of Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of High Performance Polymer-based Composites of Guangdong Province, GBRCE for Functional Molecular Engineering, School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Yang Zhang
- Key Laboratory for Polymeric Composite and Functional Materials of Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of High Performance Polymer-based Composites of Guangdong Province, GBRCE for Functional Molecular Engineering, School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Bin Ye
- School of Computer Science and Engineering, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, China
| | - Jing Li
- Institute of Applied Physics and Materials Engineering, University of Macau, Taipa, Macao SAR, 999078, China
| | - Qishan Ran
- Key Laboratory for Polymeric Composite and Functional Materials of Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of High Performance Polymer-based Composites of Guangdong Province, GBRCE for Functional Molecular Engineering, School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Xiaotong Wang
- Key Laboratory for Polymeric Composite and Functional Materials of Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of High Performance Polymer-based Composites of Guangdong Province, GBRCE for Functional Molecular Engineering, School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Meijia Yang
- Key Laboratory for Polymeric Composite and Functional Materials of Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of High Performance Polymer-based Composites of Guangdong Province, GBRCE for Functional Molecular Engineering, School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Zhongke Yuan
- School of Chemical Engineering and Light Industry, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, China
- Guangdong Laboratory of Chemistry and Fine Chemical Industry Jieyang Center, Jieyang, 515200, China
| | - Xiaofeng Lin
- School of Chemical Engineering and Light Industry, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, China
- Guangdong Laboratory of Chemistry and Fine Chemical Industry Jieyang Center, Jieyang, 515200, China
| | - Dingshan Yu
- Key Laboratory for Polymeric Composite and Functional Materials of Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of High Performance Polymer-based Composites of Guangdong Province, GBRCE for Functional Molecular Engineering, School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Xudong Chen
- School of Chemical Engineering and Light Industry, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, China
- Guangdong Laboratory of Chemistry and Fine Chemical Industry Jieyang Center, Jieyang, 515200, China
| | - Quan Li
- Institute of Advanced Materials and School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, 211189, China
- Materials Science Graduate Program, Kent State University, Kent, OH 44242, USA
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7
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Lu H, Ye H, You L. Photoswitchable Cascades for Allosteric and Bidirectional Control over Covalent Bonds and Assemblies. J Am Chem Soc 2024. [PMID: 38620077 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.4c01240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
Studies of complex systems and emerging properties to mimic biosystems are at the forefront of chemical research. Dynamic multistep cascades, especially those exhibiting allosteric regulation, are challenging. Herein, we demonstrate a versatile platform of photoswitchable covalent cascades toward remote and bidirectional control of reversible covalent bonds and ensuing assemblies. The relay of a photochromic switch, keto-enol equilibrium, and ring-chain equilibrium allows light-mediated reversible allosteric structural changes. The accompanying distinct reactivity further enables photoswitchable dynamic covalent bonding and release of substrates bidirectionally through alternating two wavelengths of light, essentially realizing light-mediated signaling cycles. The downfall of energy by covalent bond formation/scission upon photochemical reactions offers the driving force for the controlled direction of the cascade. To show the molecular diversity, photoswitchable on-demand assembly/disassembly of covalent polymers, including structurally reconfigurable polymers, was realized. This work achieves photoswitchable allosteric regulation of covalent architectures within dynamic multistep cascades, which has rarely been reported before. The results resemble allosteric control within biological signaling networks and should set the stage for many endeavors, such as dynamic assemblies, molecular motors, responsive polymers, and intelligent materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanwei Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Structural Chemistry, Fujian Institute of Research on the Structure of Matter, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Fuzhou 350002, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Hebo Ye
- State Key Laboratory of Structural Chemistry, Fujian Institute of Research on the Structure of Matter, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Lei You
- State Key Laboratory of Structural Chemistry, Fujian Institute of Research on the Structure of Matter, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Fuzhou 350002, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
- Fujian Science & Technology Innovation Laboratory for Optoelectronic Information of China, Fuzhou 350108, China
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8
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Naz M, Zhang L, Chen C, Yang S, Dou H, Mann S, Li J. Self-assembly of stabilized droplets from liquid-liquid phase separation for higher-order structures and functions. Commun Chem 2024; 7:79. [PMID: 38594355 PMCID: PMC11004187 DOI: 10.1038/s42004-024-01168-5] [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: 12/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Dynamic microscale droplets produced by liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) have emerged as appealing biomaterials due to their remarkable features. However, the instability of droplets limits the construction of population-level structures with collective behaviors. Here we first provide a brief background of droplets in the context of materials properties. Subsequently, we discuss current strategies for stabilizing droplets including physical separation and chemical modulation. We also discuss the recent development of LLPS droplets for various applications such as synthetic cells and biomedical materials. Finally, we give insights on how stabilized droplets can self-assemble into higher-order structures displaying coordinated functions to fully exploit their potentials in bottom-up synthetic biology and biomedical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehwish Naz
- State Key Laboratory of Metal Matrix Composites, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
- Zhangjiang Institute for Advanced Study (ZIAS), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 429 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Lin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Metal Matrix Composites, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
- Zhangjiang Institute for Advanced Study (ZIAS), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 429 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Chong Chen
- MediCity Research Laboratory, University of Turku, Tykistökatu 6, Turku, 20520, Finland
| | - Shuo Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Metal Matrix Composites, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China.
- Zhangjiang Institute for Advanced Study (ZIAS), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 429 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai, 201203, China.
| | - Hongjing Dou
- State Key Laboratory of Metal Matrix Composites, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China.
- Zhangjiang Institute for Advanced Study (ZIAS), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 429 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai, 201203, China.
| | - Stephen Mann
- State Key Laboratory of Metal Matrix Composites, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China.
- Zhangjiang Institute for Advanced Study (ZIAS), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 429 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai, 201203, China.
- Centre for Protolife Research and Centre for Organized Matter Chemistry, School of Chemistry, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK.
- Max Planck-Bristol Centre for Minimal Biology, School of Chemistry, University of Bristol, Bristol, BS8 1TS, UK.
| | - Jianwei Li
- MediCity Research Laboratory, University of Turku, Tykistökatu 6, Turku, 20520, Finland.
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9
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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.
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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
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10
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Zhang D, Broer DJ, Liu D. Facilitating Interskin Communication in Artificial Polymer Systems through Liquid Transfer. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024; 36:e2312428. [PMID: 38211568 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202312428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/13/2024]
Abstract
Chemical communication is a ubiquitous process in nature, and it has sparked interest in the development of electric-sense-based robotic perception systems with chemical components. Here, a novel liquid crystal polymer is introduced that combines the transferring, receiving, and sensing of chemical signals, providing a new principle to achieve chemical communication in robotic systems. This approach allows for the transfer of cargo between two polymer coatings, and the transfer can be monitored through an electrical signal. Additionally, cascade transfer can be achieved through this approach, as the transfer of cargo is not limited to only two coatings, but can continue from the second to a third coating. Furthermore, the two coatings can be infused with different reagents, and upon exchange, a reaction takes place to generate the desired species. The novel method of chemical communication that is developed presents a notable improvement in embodied perception. This advancement facilitates human-robot and robot-robot interactions and enhances the ability of robots to efficiently and accurately perform complex tasks in their environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongyu Zhang
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry, Eindhoven University of Technology, Groene Loper 3, Eindhoven, 5612 AE, The Netherlands
- Institute for Complex Molecular Systems (ICMS), Eindhoven University of Technology, Groene Loper 3, Eindhoven, 5612 AE, The Netherlands
| | - Dirk J Broer
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry, Eindhoven University of Technology, Groene Loper 3, Eindhoven, 5612 AE, The Netherlands
- Institute for Complex Molecular Systems (ICMS), Eindhoven University of Technology, Groene Loper 3, Eindhoven, 5612 AE, The Netherlands
| | - Danqing Liu
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry, Eindhoven University of Technology, Groene Loper 3, Eindhoven, 5612 AE, The Netherlands
- Institute for Complex Molecular Systems (ICMS), Eindhoven University of Technology, Groene Loper 3, Eindhoven, 5612 AE, The Netherlands
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11
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Ghosh S, Baltussen MG, Ivanov NM, Haije R, Jakštaitė M, Zhou T, Huck WTS. Exploring Emergent Properties in Enzymatic Reaction Networks: Design and Control of Dynamic Functional Systems. Chem Rev 2024; 124:2553-2582. [PMID: 38476077 PMCID: PMC10941194 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.3c00681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2023] [Revised: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
The intricate and complex features of enzymatic reaction networks (ERNs) play a key role in the emergence and sustenance of life. Constructing such networks in vitro enables stepwise build up in complexity and introduces the opportunity to control enzymatic activity using physicochemical stimuli. Rational design and modulation of network motifs enable the engineering of artificial systems with emergent functionalities. Such functional systems are useful for a variety of reasons such as creating new-to-nature dynamic materials, producing value-added chemicals, constructing metabolic modules for synthetic cells, and even enabling molecular computation. In this review, we offer insights into the chemical characteristics of ERNs while also delving into their potential applications and associated challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Souvik Ghosh
- Institute for Molecules and
Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Mathieu G. Baltussen
- Institute for Molecules and
Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Nikita M. Ivanov
- Institute for Molecules and
Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Rianne Haije
- Institute for Molecules and
Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Miglė Jakštaitė
- Institute for Molecules and
Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Tao Zhou
- Institute for Molecules and
Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Wilhelm T. S. Huck
- Institute for Molecules and
Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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12
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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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13
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Yu X, Mukwaya V, Mann S, Dou H. Signal Transduction in Artificial Cells. SMALL METHODS 2023; 7:e2300231. [PMID: 37116092 DOI: 10.1002/smtd.202300231] [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: 02/23/2023] [Revised: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, significant progress has been made in the emerging field of constructing biomimetic soft compartments with life-like behaviors. Given that biological activities occur under a flux of energy and matter exchange, the implementation of rudimentary signaling pathways in artificial cells (protocells) is a prerequisite for the development of adaptive sense-response phenotypes in cytomimetic models. Herein, recent approaches to the integration of signal transduction modules in model protocells prepared by bottom-up construction are discussed. The approaches are classified into two categories involving invasive biochemical signals or non-invasive physical stimuli. In the former mechanism, transducers with intrinsic recognition capability respond with high specificity, while in the latter, artificial cells respond through intra-protocellular energy transduction. Although major challenges remain in the pursuit of a sophisticated artificial signaling network for the orchestration of higher-order cytomimetic models, significant advances have been made in establishing rudimentary protocell communication networks, providing novel organizational models for the development of life-like microsystems and new avenues in protoliving technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaolei Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Metal Matrix Composites, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
- Zhangjiang Institute for Advanced Study (ZIAS), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Vincent Mukwaya
- State Key Laboratory of Metal Matrix Composites, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
- Zhangjiang Institute for Advanced Study (ZIAS), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Stephen Mann
- State Key Laboratory of Metal Matrix Composites, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
- Zhangjiang Institute for Advanced Study (ZIAS), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 201203, China
- Max Planck Bristol Centre for Minimal Biology and Centre for Protolife Research, School of Chemistry, University of Bristol, Bristol, BS8 1TS, UK
| | - Hongjing Dou
- State Key Laboratory of Metal Matrix Composites, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
- Zhangjiang Institute for Advanced Study (ZIAS), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 201203, China
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14
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Clerc M, Sandlass S, Rifaie-Graham O, Peterson JA, Bruns N, Read de Alaniz J, Boesel LF. Visible light-responsive materials: the (photo)chemistry and applications of donor-acceptor Stenhouse adducts in polymer science. Chem Soc Rev 2023; 52:8245-8294. [PMID: 37905554 PMCID: PMC10680135 DOI: 10.1039/d3cs00508a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023]
Abstract
Donor-acceptor Stenhouse adduct (DASA) photoswitches have gained a lot of attention since their discovery in 2014. Their negative photochromism, visible light absorbance, synthetic tunability, and the large property changes between their photoisomers make them attractive candidates over other commonly used photoswitches for use in materials with responsive or adaptive properties. The development of such materials and their translation into advanced technologies continues to widely impact forefront materials research, and DASAs have thus attracted considerable interest in the field of visible-light responsive molecular switches and dynamic materials. Despite this interest, there have been challenges in understanding their complex behavior in the context of both small molecule studies and materials. Moreover, incorporation of DASAs into polymers can be challenging due to their incompatibility with the conditions for most common polymerization techniques. In this review, therefore, we examine and critically discuss the recent developments and challenges in the field of DASA-containing polymers, aiming at providing a better understanding of the interplay between the properties of both constituents (matrix and photoswitch). The first part summarizes current understanding of DASA design and switching properties. The second section discusses strategies of incorporation of DASAs into polymers, properties of DASA-containing materials, and methods for studying switching of DASAs in materials. We also discuss emerging applications for DASA photoswitches in polymeric materials, ranging from light-responsive drug delivery systems, to photothermal actuators, sensors and photoswitchable surfaces. Last, we summarize the current challenges in the field and venture on the steps required to explore novel systems and expand both the functional properties and the application opportunities of DASA-containing polymers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michèle Clerc
- Empa, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, Laboratory for Biomimetic Membranes and Textiles, 9014 St. Gallen, Switzerland.
- University of Fribourg, Department of Chemistry, 1700 Fribourg, Switzerland
- Department of Pure and Applied Chemistry, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow G1 1XL, UK
- Swiss National Center of Competence in Research Bio-Inspired Materials, Switzerland
| | - Sara Sandlass
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of California, Santa Barbara, California 93106, USA
| | - Omar Rifaie-Graham
- Department of Chemistry, School of Physical and Chemical Sciences, Queen Mary University of London, London E1 4NS, UK
| | - Julie A Peterson
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California, Santa Barbara, California 93106, USA.
| | - Nico Bruns
- Department of Pure and Applied Chemistry, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow G1 1XL, UK
- Swiss National Center of Competence in Research Bio-Inspired Materials, Switzerland
- Department of Chemistry, Technical University of Darmstadt, 64287 Darmstadt, Germany.
| | - Javier Read de Alaniz
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California, Santa Barbara, California 93106, USA.
| | - Luciano F Boesel
- Empa, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, Laboratory for Biomimetic Membranes and Textiles, 9014 St. Gallen, Switzerland.
- Swiss National Center of Competence in Research Bio-Inspired Materials, Switzerland
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15
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Kayani A, Raza A, Si J, Dutta D, Zhou Q, Ge Z. Polymersome Membrane Engineering with Active Targeting or Controlled Permeability for Responsive Drug Delivery. Biomacromolecules 2023; 24:4622-4645. [PMID: 37870458 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.3c00839] [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: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
Polymersomes have been extensively investigated for drug delivery as nanocarriers for two decades due to a series of advantages including high stability under physiological conditions, simultaneous encapsulation of hydrophilic and hydrophobic drugs inside inner cavities and membranes, respectively, and facile adjustment of membrane and surface properties, as well as controlled drug release through incorporation of stimuli-responsive components. Despite these features, polymersome nanocarriers frequently suffer from nontargeting delivery and poor membrane permeability. In recent years, polymersomes have been functionalized for more efficient drug delivery. The surface shells were explored to be modified with diverse active targeting groups to improve disease-targeting delivery. The membrane permeability of the polymersomes was adjusted by incorporation of the stimuli-responsive components for smart controlled transportation of the encapsulated drugs. Therefore, being the polymersome-biointerface, tailorable properties can be introduced by its carefully modulated engineering. This review elaborates on the role of polymersome membranes as a platform to incorporate versatile features. First, we discuss how surface functionalization facilitates the directional journey to the targeting sites toward specific diseases, cells, or intracellular organelles via active targeting. Moreover, recent advances in the past decade related to membrane permeability to control drug release are also summarized. We finally discuss future development to promote polymersomes as in vivo drug delivery nanocarriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anum Kayani
- School of Chemistry, Engineering Research Center of Energy Storage Materials and Devices, Ministry of Education, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, Shaanxi, China
- CAS Key Laboratory of Soft Matter Chemistry, Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, Anhui, China
| | - Arsalan Raza
- School of Chemistry, Engineering Research Center of Energy Storage Materials and Devices, Ministry of Education, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, Shaanxi, China
- CAS Key Laboratory of Soft Matter Chemistry, Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, Anhui, China
| | - Jiale Si
- School of Chemistry, Engineering Research Center of Energy Storage Materials and Devices, Ministry of Education, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, Shaanxi, China
| | - Debabrata Dutta
- School of Chemistry, Engineering Research Center of Energy Storage Materials and Devices, Ministry of Education, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, Shaanxi, China
| | - Qinghao Zhou
- School of Chemistry, Engineering Research Center of Energy Storage Materials and Devices, Ministry of Education, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, Shaanxi, China
| | - Zhishen Ge
- School of Chemistry, Engineering Research Center of Energy Storage Materials and Devices, Ministry of Education, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, Shaanxi, China
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16
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Zhao Y, Ye Z, Song D, Wich D, Gao S, Khirallah J, Xu Q. Nanomechanical action opens endo-lysosomal compartments. Nat Commun 2023; 14:6645. [PMID: 37863882 PMCID: PMC10589329 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-42280-9] [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: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Endo-lysosomal escape is a highly inefficient process, which is a bottleneck for intracellular delivery of biologics, including proteins and nucleic acids. Herein, we demonstrate the design of a lipid-based nanoscale molecular machine, which achieves efficient cytosolic transport of biologics by destabilizing endo-lysosomal compartments through nanomechanical action upon light irradiation. We fabricate lipid-based nanoscale molecular machines, which are designed to perform mechanical movement by consuming photons, by co-assembling azobenzene lipidoids with helper lipids. We show that lipid-based nanoscale molecular machines adhere onto the endo-lysosomal membrane after entering cells. We demonstrate that continuous rotation-inversion movement of Azo lipidoids triggered by ultraviolet/visible irradiation results in the destabilization of the membranes, thereby transporting cargoes, such as mRNAs and Cre proteins, to the cytoplasm. We find that the efficiency of cytosolic transport is improved about 2.1-fold, compared to conventional intracellular delivery systems. Finally, we show that lipid-based nanoscale molecular machines are competent for cytosolic transport of tumour antigens into dendritic cells, which induce robust antitumour activity in a melanoma mouse model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Zhao
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, MA, 02155, USA
| | - Zhongfeng Ye
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, MA, 02155, USA
| | - Donghui Song
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, MA, 02155, USA
| | - Douglas Wich
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, MA, 02155, USA
| | - Shuliang Gao
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, MA, 02155, USA
| | - Jennifer Khirallah
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, MA, 02155, USA
| | - Qiaobing Xu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, MA, 02155, USA.
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17
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Rana M, Ahmad R, Taylor AF. A microfluidic double emulsion platform for spatiotemporal control of pH and particle synthesis. LAB ON A CHIP 2023; 23:4504-4513. [PMID: 37766460 DOI: 10.1039/d3lc00711a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
The temporal control of pH in microreactors such as emulsion droplets plays a vital role in applications including biomineralisation and microparticle synthesis. Typically, pH changes are achieved either by passive diffusion of species into a droplet or by acid/base producing reactions. Here, we exploit an enzyme reaction combined with the properties of a water-oil-water (W/O/W) double emulsion to control the pH-time profile in the droplets. A microfluidic platform was used for production of ∼100-200 μm urease-encapsulated double emulsions with a tuneable mineral oil shell thickness of 10-40 μm. The reaction was initiated on-demand by addition of urea and a pulse in base (ammonia) up to pH 8 was observed in the droplets after a time lag of the order of minutes. The pH-time profile can be manipulated by the diffusion timescale of urea and ammonia through the oil layer, resulting in a steady state pH not observed in bulk reactive solutions. This approach may be used to regulate the formation of pH sensitive materials under mild conditions and, as a proof of concept, the reaction was coupled to calcium phosphate precipitation in the droplets. The oil shell thickness was varied to select for either brushite microplatelets or hydroxyapatite particles, compared to the mixture of different precipitates obtained in bulk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maheen Rana
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Sheffield, Sheffield S1 3JD, UK.
| | - Raheel Ahmad
- Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center and, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, 02129, USA
| | - Annette F Taylor
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Sheffield, Sheffield S1 3JD, UK.
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18
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Gu W, An J, Li Y, Yang Y, Wang S, Shan H, Li S, Li H, Liu G, Li K, Yin Y, Mu J, Chen X. Tuning the Organ Tropism of Polymersome for Spleen-Selective Nanovaccine Delivery to Boost Cancer Immunotherapy. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2023; 35:e2301686. [PMID: 37165781 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202301686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Revised: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
The past few decades have witnessed explosive development in drug delivery systems. However, in vivo delivery suffers from non-specific distribution in non-targeted organs or tissues, which may cause undesired side effects and even genotoxicity. Here, a general strategy that enables tuning the tropism of polymersomes for liver- and spleen-selective delivery is reported. By using a library screening approach, spleen-targeted polymersome PH9-Aln-8020 and liver-targeted polymersome PA9-ZP3-5050 are identified accordingly. Meanwhile, the second near-infrared (NIR-II) fluorescence imaging allows for in vivo dynamic evaluation of their spatial and temporal accumulation in specific tissues. O ur findings indicate that both polymer composition and protein corona on the surface are essential to determine the in vivo fate of polymersomes and tendency for specific organs. Importantly, PH9-Aln-8020 is employed as a systemic nanocarrier to co-deliver the antigen and adjuvant, which remarkably boost splenic immune responses in acute myeloid leukemia, melanoma, and melanoma lung metastasis mouse models. This study may open a new frontier for polymersomes in organ-selective delivery and other biomedical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenxing Gu
- Institute of Precision Medicine, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, 518036, P. R. China
- Departments of Diagnostic Radiology, Surgery, Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, College of Design and Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 119074, Singapore
- Nanomedicine Translational Research Program, NUS Center for Nanomedicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117597, Singapore
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Smart Healthcare Engineering, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Advanced Biomaterials, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, 518055, P. R. China
| | - Jingnan An
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Institute of Blood and Marrow Transplantation of Soochow University, Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, P. R. China
| | - Yaxi Li
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Smart Healthcare Engineering, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Advanced Biomaterials, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, 518055, P. R. China
| | - Yajie Yang
- Institute of Precision Medicine, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, 518036, P. R. China
| | - Shumin Wang
- Institute of Precision Medicine, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, 518036, P. R. China
| | - Hui Shan
- Institute of Precision Medicine, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, 518036, P. R. China
| | - Shenhua Li
- Institute of Precision Medicine, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, 518036, P. R. China
| | - Hui Li
- Institute of Precision Medicine, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, 518036, P. R. China
- Departments of Diagnostic Radiology, Surgery, Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, College of Design and Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 119074, Singapore
- Nanomedicine Translational Research Program, NUS Center for Nanomedicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117597, Singapore
| | - Guoyong Liu
- Institute of Precision Medicine, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, 518036, P. R. China
| | - Kai Li
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Smart Healthcare Engineering, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Advanced Biomaterials, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, 518055, P. R. China
| | - Yuxin Yin
- Institute of Precision Medicine, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, 518036, P. R. China
| | - Jing Mu
- Institute of Precision Medicine, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, 518036, P. R. China
| | - Xiaoyuan Chen
- Departments of Diagnostic Radiology, Surgery, Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, College of Design and Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 119074, Singapore
- Nanomedicine Translational Research Program, NUS Center for Nanomedicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117597, Singapore
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19
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Kamra A, Das S, Bhatt P, Solra M, Maity T, Rana S. A transient vesicular glue for amplification and temporal regulation of biocatalytic reaction networks. Chem Sci 2023; 14:9267-9282. [PMID: 37712020 PMCID: PMC10498679 DOI: 10.1039/d3sc00195d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Regulation of enzyme activity and biocatalytic cascades on compartmentalized cellular components is key to the adaptation of cellular processes such as signal transduction and metabolism in response to varying external conditions. Synthetic molecular glues have enabled enzyme inhibition and regulation of protein-protein interactions. So far, all the molecular glue systems based on covalent interactions operated under steady-state conditions. To emulate dynamic biological processes under dissipative conditions, we introduce herein a transient supramolecular glue with a controllable lifetime. The transient system uses multivalent supramolecular interactions between guanidinium group-bearing surfactants and adenosine triphosphate (ATP), resulting in bilayer vesicle structures. Unlike the conventional chemical agents for dissipative assemblies, ATP here plays the dual role of providing a structural component for the assembly as well as presenting active functional groups to "glue" enzymes on the surface. While gluing of the enzymes on the vesicles achieves augmented catalysis, oscillation of ATP concentration allows temporal control of the catalytic activities similar to the dissipative cellular nanoreactors. We further demonstrate temporal upregulation and control of complex biocatalytic reaction networks on the vesicles. Altogether, the temporal activation of biocatalytic cascades on the dissipative vesicular glue presents an adaptable and dynamic system emulating heterogeneous cellular processes, opening up avenues for effective protocell construction and therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alisha Kamra
- Materials Research Centre, Indian Institute of Science C.V. Raman Road Bangalore 560012 Karnataka India +9180-22932914
| | - Sourav Das
- Materials Research Centre, Indian Institute of Science C.V. Raman Road Bangalore 560012 Karnataka India +9180-22932914
| | - Preeti Bhatt
- Materials Research Centre, Indian Institute of Science C.V. Raman Road Bangalore 560012 Karnataka India +9180-22932914
| | - Manju Solra
- Materials Research Centre, Indian Institute of Science C.V. Raman Road Bangalore 560012 Karnataka India +9180-22932914
| | - Tanmoy Maity
- Materials Research Centre, Indian Institute of Science C.V. Raman Road Bangalore 560012 Karnataka India +9180-22932914
| | - Subinoy Rana
- Materials Research Centre, Indian Institute of Science C.V. Raman Road Bangalore 560012 Karnataka India +9180-22932914
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20
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Zhu Y, Cao S, Huo M, van Hest JCM, Che H. Recent advances in permeable polymersomes: fabrication, responsiveness, and applications. Chem Sci 2023; 14:7411-7437. [PMID: 37449076 PMCID: PMC10337762 DOI: 10.1039/d3sc01707a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Polymersomes are vesicular nanostructures enclosed by a bilayer-membrane self-assembled from amphiphilic block copolymers, which exhibit higher stability compared with their biological analogues (e.g. liposomes). Due to their versatility, polymersomes have found various applications in different research fields such as drug delivery, nanomedicine, biological nanoreactors, and artificial cells. However, polymersomes prepared with high molecular weight components typically display low permeability to molecules and ions. It hence remains a major challenge to balance the opposing features of robustness and permeability of polymersomes. In this review, we focus on the design and strategies for fabricating permeable polymersomes, including polymersomes with intrinsic permeability, the formation of nanopores in the membrane bilayers by protein insertion, and the construction of stimuli-responsive polymersomes. Then, we highlight the applications of permeable polymersomes in the fields of biomimetic nanoreactors, artificial cells and organelles, and nanomedicine, to underline the challenges in the development of polymersomes as soft matter with biomedical utilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanyan Zhu
- Department of Chemical Engineering, School of Environmental and Chemical Engineerin, Shanghai University Shanghai 200444 China
| | - Shoupeng Cao
- Max Planck Institute for Polymer Research Mainz 55128 Germany
| | - Meng Huo
- Department of Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Surface & Interface Science of Polymer Materials of Zhejiang, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University Hangzhou 310018 China
| | - Jan C M van Hest
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology Eindhoven 5600 MB The Netherlands
| | - Hailong Che
- Department of Chemical Engineering, School of Environmental and Chemical Engineerin, Shanghai University Shanghai 200444 China
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21
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Ji Y, Lin Y, Qiao Y. Plant Cell-Inspired Membranization of Coacervate Protocells with a Structured Polysaccharide Layer. J Am Chem Soc 2023. [PMID: 37267599 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.3c01326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
The design of compartmentalized colloids that exhibit biomimetic properties is providing model systems for developing synthetic cell-like entities (protocells). Inspired by the cell walls in plant cells, we developed a method to prepare membranized coacervates as protocell models by coating membraneless liquid-like microdroplets with a protective layer of rigid polysaccharides. Membranization not only endowed colloidal stability and prevented aggregation and coalescence but also facilitated selective biomolecule sequestration and chemical exchange across the membrane. The polysaccharide wall surrounding coacervate protocells acted as a stimuli-responsive structural barrier that enabled enzyme-triggered membrane lysis to initiate internalization and killing of Escherichia coli. The membranized coacervates were capable of spatial organization into structured tissue-like protocell assemblages, offering a means to mimic metabolism and cell-to-cell communication. We envision that surface engineering of protocells as developed in this work generates a platform for constructing advanced synthetic cell mimetics and sophisticated cell-like behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanglimin Ji
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences (BNLMS), Laboratory of Polymer Physics and Chemistry, CAS Research/Education Center for Excellence in Molecular Sciences, Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yiyang Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Resource Engineering, Beijing Laboratory of Biomedical Materials, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Yan Qiao
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences (BNLMS), Laboratory of Polymer Physics and Chemistry, CAS Research/Education Center for Excellence in Molecular Sciences, Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
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22
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Ma H, Li W, Fan H, Xiang J. A Red-Light-Responsive DASA-Polymer with High Water Stability for Controlled Release. Polymers (Basel) 2023; 15:polym15112489. [PMID: 37299288 DOI: 10.3390/polym15112489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2023] [Revised: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Photoresponsive polymers hold vast potential in the realm of drug delivery. Currently, most photoresponsive polymers use ultraviolet (UV) light as the excitation source. However, the limited penetration ability of UV light within biological tissues serves as a significant hindrance to their practical applications. Given the strong penetration ability of red light in biological tissues, the design and preparation of a novel red-light-responsive polymer with high water stability, incorporating the reversible photoswitching compound and donor-acceptor Stenhouse adducts (DASA) for controlled drug release is demonstrated. In aqueous solutions, this polymer exhibits self-assembly into micellar nanovectors (~33 nm hydrodynamic diameter), facilitating the encapsulation of the hydrophobic model drug Nile red (NR) within the micellar core. Upon irradiation by a 660 nm LED light source, photons are absorbed by DASA, leading to the disruption of the hydrophilic-hydrophobic balance of the nanovector and thereby resulting in the release of NR. This newly designed nanovector incorporates red light as a responsive switch, successfully avoiding the problems of photodamage and limited penetration of UV light within biological tissues, thereby further promoting the practical applications of photoresponsive polymer nanomedicines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Ma
- College of Biomass Science and Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
| | - Wan Li
- College of Biomass Science and Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
| | - Haojun Fan
- College of Biomass Science and Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
| | - Jun Xiang
- College of Biomass Science and Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
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Fielden SDP, Derry MJ, Miller AJ, Topham PD, O'Reilly RK. Triggered Polymersome Fusion. J Am Chem Soc 2023; 145:5824-5833. [PMID: 36877655 PMCID: PMC10021019 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.2c13049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/07/2023]
Abstract
The contents of biological cells are retained within compartments formed of phospholipid membranes. The movement of material within and between cells is often mediated by the fusion of phospholipid membranes, which allows mixing of contents or excretion of material into the surrounding environment. Biological membrane fusion is a highly regulated process that is catalyzed by proteins and often triggered by cellular signaling. In contrast, the controlled fusion of polymer-based membranes is largely unexplored, despite the potential application of this process in nanomedicine, smart materials, and reagent trafficking. Here, we demonstrate triggered polymersome fusion. Out-of-equilibrium polymersomes were formed by ring-opening metathesis polymerization-induced self-assembly and persist until a specific chemical signal (pH change) triggers their fusion. Characterization of polymersomes was performed by a variety of techniques, including dynamic light scattering, dry-state/cryogenic-transmission electron microscopy, and small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS). The fusion process was followed by time-resolved SAXS analysis. Developing elementary methods of communication between polymersomes, such as fusion, will prove essential for emulating life-like behaviors in synthetic nanotechnology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen D P Fielden
- School of Chemistry, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Matthew J Derry
- Aston Advanced Materials Research Centre, Aston University, Birmingham B4 7ET, UK
| | - Alisha J Miller
- School of Chemistry, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Paul D Topham
- Aston Advanced Materials Research Centre, Aston University, Birmingham B4 7ET, UK
| | - Rachel K O'Reilly
- School of Chemistry, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
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Wang X, Hu J, Liu S. Overcoming the Dilemma of Permeability and Stability of Polymersomes through Traceless Cross-Linking. Acc Chem Res 2022; 55:3404-3416. [PMID: 36351034 DOI: 10.1021/acs.accounts.2c00442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
In nature, cells are highly compartmentalized into many organelles that are well separated from the rest of the cellular space by unique membrane structures, which are of crucial importance to allow cells to perform various physiological functions in such a small and crowded space. Learning from the ubiquitous membrane structures of cells and organelles has continuously inspired the development of artificial self-assembled nanostructures, with lipid vesicles (liposomes) and polymer vesicles (polymersomes) being the most representative examples. Similar to the membrane-bound structures of cells and organelles, both liposomes and polymersomes contain an aqueous interior enclosed by a bilayer membrane. Therefore, liposomes and polymersomes have been extensively investigated to mimic the fundamental structures and functions of living cells. For example, liposomes and polymersomes have been successfully engineered as nanocarriers, smart nanoreactors, artificial organelles, and so on. Notably, living cells can exchange both energy and materials with surrounding environments, benefiting from the selective permeability of lipid membranes. The permselectivity of cell membranes is thus an essential attribute of living organisms. Compared to liposomes, polymersomes have increased structural stability but low membrane permeability. Indeed, polymersomes are almost impermeable to small molecules, ions, and even water molecules. To improve the permeability of polymersomes, much effort has been devoted to the incorporation of channel proteins, the coassembly of oppositely charged block copolymers (BCPs), the development of stimuli-responsive BCPs, and so on. Despite great achievements, these approaches generally lead to decreased stability of polymersomes and, sometimes, polymersome disintegration. In this Account, we discuss our recent efforts to reconcile the stability and permeability of polymersomes via a traceless cross-linking approach. Although cross-linking reactions within bilayer membranes generally lead to decreased permeability, the traceless cross-linking approach can concurrently improve the stability and permeability of polymersomes. Specifically, stimuli-responsive polymersomes undergo either covalent cross-linking or noncovalent cross-linking reactions under specific stimuli to increase bilayer stability, while the cross-linking processes can concurrently permeabilize polymersome bilayers through cross-linking-driven hydrophobic-to-hydrophilic transitions. Notably, unlike conventional cross-linking processes requiring additional cross-linkers, the traceless cross-linking process does not involve extra cross-linking agents but takes full advantage of the in situ generated active moieties. By taking advantage of the simultaneous modulation of the stability and permeability of polymersomes via traceless cross-linking, these polymersomes can be further engineered as smart nanocarriers and nanoreactors. The robustness and generality of this approach have been validated by both extracellular and intracellular stimuli such as light irradiation, glutathione, and hydrogen peroxide. Moreover, many functional groups such as fluorescent dyes and contrast agents can be integrated into this versatile platform as well, enabling the construction of theranostic nanovectors capable of responding to pathological microenvironments. This Account provides a new approach to regulating the permeability of polymersomes while maintaining their structural stability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaorui Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, and CAS Key Laboratory of Soft Matter Chemistry, Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, School of Chemistry and Materials Science, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Construction and Detection in Tissue Engineering, Biomaterials Research Center, School of Biomedical Engineering, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515, China
| | - Jinming Hu
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, and CAS Key Laboratory of Soft Matter Chemistry, Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, School of Chemistry and Materials Science, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
| | - Shiyong Liu
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, and CAS Key Laboratory of Soft Matter Chemistry, Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, School of Chemistry and Materials Science, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
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