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Development of Artificial Cell Models Using Microfluidic Technology and Synthetic Biology
1Division of Molecular Science, Graduate School of Science and Technology, Gunma University, 1-5-1 Tenjin-cho, Kiryu city, Gunma 376-8515, Japan.
Micromachines
|June 4, 2020
Summary
Giant lipid vesicles, mimicking cell membranes, are crucial for creating artificial cells. Microfluidics enables complex structures for studying cell functions and producing biomolecules.
Area of Science:
- Biophysics
- Synthetic Biology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Giant lipid vesicles (GLVs) are phospholipid-based structures resembling cell membranes.
- Their size (5-100 μm) and optical visibility facilitate study.
- GLVs serve as model systems for lipid bilayer biophysics and biochemistry.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the use of microfluidics in creating complex GLVs.
- To discuss the role of GLVs in developing artificial cell models.
- To highlight the biological functions of reconstituted GLVs.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing microfluidic technologies for GLV formation.
- Incorporating membrane and soluble proteins into GLVs.
- Reconstituting biomolecules within GLVs to form artificial cells.
Main Results:
- Microfluidics allows for the creation of GLVs with asymmetric lipid membranes and complex structures.
- GLVs have been successfully engineered with nanopores, ion channels, and various proteins.
- Artificial cell models based on GLVs exhibit complex biological functions.
Conclusions:
- Engineered GLVs are pivotal in constructing advanced artificial cell models.
- These models facilitate the study of minimal cells and protocells.
- Artificial cells offer potential for producing rare biomolecules and intercellular communication.
