Patenting activity in synthesis of lipid nanotubes and peptide nanotubes

Lipid nanotubes (LNTs) and peptide nanotubes (PNTs) are especially intriguing and noncovalent self-assemblies of amphiphiles. They have hydrophilically internal and external membrane surfaces, and can provide the wide scope for chemical modifications, in sharp contrast to carbon nanotubes. These unique properties make themselves as ideal candidates for a variety of applications in chemistry, biochemistry, materials science and medicine. Patenting the LNTs and PNTs is quite active recently. This mini-review provides a brief outline of patenting activity in synthesis of the LNTs and PNTs since 1980s. The key point of the present review aims to create an optimistic circulation between the basic research achievement and potential application of this sub-field of nanotechnology, promoting each other in their future development.