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The use of liposomes for constructing cell models.

T Oberholzer1, P L Luisi

  • 1Institut für Polymere, ETH-Zentrum, Universitätsstrasse 6, CH-8092 Zurich.

Journal of Biological Physics
|January 25, 2013
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Summary

Researchers are building model minimal cells using liposomes to study the origin of life. This involves encapsulating enzymes for functions like RNA replication and protein synthesis within vesicles.

Keywords:
cell modelsearly cellsliposomesminimal cellsorigin of life

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Area of Science:

  • Origin of Life Research
  • Biochemistry
  • Synthetic Biology

Background:

  • Investigating the origin of life requires understanding how primitive cellular functions could emerge from non-living components.
  • Liposomes (small unilamellar vesicles or SUVs, and large unilamellar vesicles or LUVs) serve as model systems to mimic cellular compartments.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review and present work on encapsulating enzymatic reactions within liposomes relevant to the origin of life.
  • To outline the long-range goal of constructing a model minimal cell capable of basic life functions.

Main Methods:

  • Utilizing 1-palmitoyl-2-oleoyl-sn-phosphatidylcholine (POPC) liposomal systems.
  • Incorporating enzymes for lecithin synthesis, ADP polymerization into poly(A), RNA template replication (Qβ replicase), and polymerase chain reactions.
  • Attempting to organize ribosomal systems for poly(phenylalanine) synthesis within liposomes.
  • Exploring the expression of proteins like green fluorescent protein inside liposomes.

Main Results:

  • Demonstrated liposomal systems capable of enzymatic synthesis of lecithin.
  • Showcased polymerization of ADP to poly(A) and RNA replication within vesicles.
  • Developed self-reproducing oleate vesicles hosting Qβ replicase.
  • Initiated efforts for protein expression (green fluorescent protein) within liposomes.

Conclusions:

  • Liposomes can host and perform complex enzymatic reactions relevant to early life.
  • Progress has been made towards creating a minimal cell model with essential life functions.
  • Further research is needed to address the limitations and fully develop these protocell systems.