Mechanical Deformation Mediated Transmembrane Transport

Mechanical Deformation Mediated Transmembrane Transport:

Transmembrane transport is reported to be controlled dynamically and precisely, yet without restructuring molecules by mechanical deformation. This strategy can dynamically regulate the transport of molecules across liposomal bilayer by stretching and loosening. The transport can be switched on and off, and accurately tuned by varying strain. The entire transport process can be simply regulated by applying external mechanical force.

Abstract

Transmembrane transport is essential and plays critical roles for molecule exchange for cell survival. Methods capable of mimicking and regulating transmembrane transport have transformed the ability to create biosensors, separation membranes, and drug carriers. However, artificial channels have been largely restricted by their complicated chemical fabrication and inefficiency to dynamically manipulate the transport process. Here, a novel approach to regulate transmembrane transport is described by simply adjusting the mechanical deformation of liposomal bilayers which are covalently embedded in a crosslinked hydrogel network. This new approach is able to dynamically control transmembrane transport by stretching and loosening. The transmembrane diffusion of molecules can be switched on and off, and precisely tuned by varying strain. A potential of this method to programmably regulate cell growth is demonstrated by tuning external mechanical force. Given its unique characteristics, this method allows the development of innovative systems for controlled transmembrane transport of molecules.