Reaction mediated artificial cell termination: control of vesicle viability using Rh(I)-catalyzed hydrogenation

Methods for artificial cell control by applying catalytic processes are receiving increasing attention as a basis for artificial control of cellular functions. Here we have developed a Rh(I)-based catalytic hydrogenation reaction of unsaturated bonds of lipids that make up vesicles contained in aqueous media. The reduction reaction was applied to vesicles revealing that oleate vesicles collapse following catalytic reduction with H2 and a Rh(I) catalyst, while the distribution of EggPC liposomes was increased following the reaction. Proliferation and size of the vesicles could thus be controlled by catalysis based on variations in fluidity of the vesicle membrane. This process is applicable for use in artificial cells and/or even living cellular systems.