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Søgaard AB, Løvschall KB, Montasell MC, Cramer CB, Marcet PM, Pedersen AB, Jakobsen JH, Zelikin AN. Artificial Receptor in Synthetic Cells Performs Transmembrane Activation of Proteolysis. Adv Biol (Weinh) 2025; 9:e2400053. [PMID: 38767247 PMCID: PMC12078879 DOI: 10.1002/adbi.202400053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2024] [Revised: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
The design of artificial, synthetic cells is a fundamentally important and fast-developing field of science. Of the diverse attributes of cellular life, artificial transmembrane signaling across the biomolecular barriers remains a high challenge with only a few documented successes. Herein, the study achieves signaling across lipid bilayers and connects an exofacial enzymatic receptor activation to an intracellular biochemical catalytic response using an artificial receptor. The mechanism of signal transduction for the artificial receptor relies on the triggered decomposition of a self-immolative linker. Receptor activation ensues its head-to-tail decomposition and the release of a secondary messenger molecule into the internal volume of the synthetic cell. Transmembrane signaling is demonstrated in synthetic cells based on liposomes and mammalian cell-sized giant unilamellar vesicles and illustrates receptor performance in cell mimics with a diverse size and composition of the lipid bilayer. In giant unilamellar vesicles, transmembrane signaling connects exofacial receptor activation with intracellular activation of proteolysis. Taken together, the results of this study take a step toward engineering receptor-mediated, responsive behavior in synthetic cells.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Alexander N. Zelikin
- iNano Interdisciplinary Nanoscience CenterAarhus UniversityAarhus8000Denmark
- Department of ChemistryAarhus UniversityAarhus8000Denmark
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2
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Pedersen ABT, Andersen DG, Jakobsen JH, Montasell MC, Zelikin AN. Receptor-Mediated Transmembrane Activation of Protein Folding in Synthetic Cells. Bioconjug Chem 2025; 36:782-791. [PMID: 40094293 DOI: 10.1021/acs.bioconjchem.5c00043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/19/2025]
Abstract
Synthetic cells are a rapidly maturing platform with emerging applications in biomedicine and biotechnology. The specific novelty of this work is that we develop synthetic cells that respond to an extracellular stimulus by performing the folding of an encapsulated polypeptide into a functional enzyme. To this end, we developed artificial transmembrane signaling receptors. These contain an extracellular enzyme-responsive group, a self-immolative linker as the mechanism of signal transduction, and a secondary messenger molecule with intracellular activity. The secondary messenger is chosen such that it initiates protein refolding from the denatured polypeptide. Results of this study expand the molecular toolbox for the design of synthetic cells with life-like, responsive behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Alexander N Zelikin
- Department of Chemistry, Aarhus University, Aarhus C 8000, Denmark
- iNano Interdisciplinary Nanoscience Center, Aarhus University, Aarhus C 8000, Denmark
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3
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Li L, Yao X, Li G, Guo Q, Yue J, Liu W, Fang Y, Midgley A, Zhao M, Nishinari K. Recent progress of artificial cells in structure design, functionality and the prospects in food biotechnology. Mater Today Bio 2025; 31:101565. [PMID: 40026621 PMCID: PMC11869102 DOI: 10.1016/j.mtbio.2025.101565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2024] [Revised: 02/02/2025] [Accepted: 02/07/2025] [Indexed: 03/05/2025] Open
Abstract
Artificial cells have bridged the gap between non-living systems and biological cells. In recent years, artificial cells designed to simulate cellular structure and function have garnered significant attention. These artificial cells demonstrate vast potential for advancements in various biomedical areas, including simulating cell structure and function, creating innovative biosensors, facilitating bioactives transport, enabling micro and nanoreactors, and improving the targeted therapy for chronic foodborne diseases. In the interdisciplinary field of artificial cell construction, based on their constituent components, these systems can be categorized into lipid/polymer vesicles, coacervate, colloidosome, and metal-organic framework (MOF) artificial cells. They are anticipated to significantly enhance advancements in food science, particularly in cellular structure optimization, precise nutrition delivery, targeted nutrient release, and rapid detection methods. Consequently, this paper will comprehensively cover the historical background, fabrication techniques, and structural characteristics of artificial cells. From a functional design perspective, this review examines the growth and division mechanisms, energy production processes, encapsulation and reaction vessels, carriers, and information exchange systems of artificial cells. Ultimately, it provides a comprehensive evaluation of the safety of artificial cells from both biological and environmental viewpoints, to introduce and expand the application scenarios of this innovative biotechnology in food science.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Li
- School of Food Science and Engineering, Shaanxi University of Science and Technology, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710021, China
| | - Xiaolin Yao
- School of Food Science and Engineering, Shaanxi University of Science and Technology, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710021, China
| | - Guoliang Li
- School of Food Science and Engineering, Shaanxi University of Science and Technology, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710021, China
| | - Qianqian Guo
- School of Food Science and Engineering, Shaanxi University of Science and Technology, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710021, China
| | - Juan Yue
- School of Food Science and Engineering, Shaanxi University of Science and Technology, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710021, China
| | - Wenguang Liu
- School of Food Science and Engineering, Shaanxi University of Science and Technology, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710021, China
| | - Yapeng Fang
- Department of Food Science and Engineering, School of Agriculture and Biology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200030, China
| | - Adam Midgley
- Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials (MoE), College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Mouming Zhao
- School of Food Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510641, China
| | - Katsuyoshi Nishinari
- Glyn O. Phillips Hydrocolloid Research Centre, School of Bioengineering and Food Science, Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan, 430068, China
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4
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Zhao Q, Ran XQ, Yan ZY, Qian HL, Yan XP. Histamine-modulated wettability switching in G-protein-coupled receptor inspired nanochannel for potential drug screening and biosensing. Nat Commun 2025; 16:1820. [PMID: 39979281 PMCID: PMC11842845 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-025-57064-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 02/11/2025] [Indexed: 02/22/2025] Open
Abstract
Histamine receptor, one typical G-protein-coupled receptor (GPCR), can be activated by histamine and form the most important drug targets involved in allergy and reflux diseases. Here, we report an artificial model to mimic the wettability-induced activation of natural GPCRs via histamine-modulated enhancement of wettability in a bionic nanochannel. The artificial receptor is constructed by introducing key recognition factors in nature, L-lysine modified fluorescein isothiocyanate (L-lysine-FITC), into a conical nanochannel. The conductance of the L-lysine-FITC-modified nanochannel increases with the histamine-induced wettability enhancement due to the various interactions between histamine and L-lysine-FITC molecules including hydrogen bonding and π-π interactions, as well as the proton transfer reaction. This study represents a crucial step towards the design of artificial GPCRs with wettability-induced activation and provides an opportunity to construct artificial models of GPCRs in a non-lipid environment. The developed artificial receptor has great potential application in medicinal chemistry, biosensors, and healthcare systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, China
- International Joint Laboratory on Food Safety, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, China
- Institute of Analytical Food Safety, School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, China
| | - Xu-Qin Ran
- Institute of Analytical Food Safety, School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, China
| | - Zhu-Ying Yan
- Analysis and Testing Center, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, China
| | - Hai-Long Qian
- Institute of Analytical Food Safety, School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, China
| | - Xiu-Ping Yan
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, China.
- International Joint Laboratory on Food Safety, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, China.
- Institute of Analytical Food Safety, School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, China.
- Analysis and Testing Center, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, China.
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Biological Colloids, Ministry of Education, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, China.
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5
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Qiu C, Wu G, Zhao P, Dai J, Luo Q, Zhao L, Mao G, Ma Y. Intrinsic dual-emitting Si dots for high-precision and broad-range pH detection. Anal Chim Acta 2025; 1339:343637. [PMID: 39832873 DOI: 10.1016/j.aca.2025.343637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2024] [Accepted: 01/08/2025] [Indexed: 01/22/2025]
Abstract
BACKGROUND High-precision and broad-range pH detection is critical for health status assessment, such as signal transduction, enzyme activity, endocytosis, and cell proliferation and apoptosis. Although pH-responsive ratiometric fluorescent probes offer an effective pH monitoring strategy, their preparation often requires multi-step modification and decreases fluorescence efficiency and stability. Herein, we developed a simple method to prepare fluorescent Si dots with dual emission centers for high-precision and broad-range pH monitoring, and the detection of urease based on pH-responsive Si dots and pH monitoring in living cell was further explored. RESULTS The dual-emitting Si dots had two emission centers at 427 nm and 500 nm. The emission at 427 nm showed a fluorescence enhancement and effective quenching in the pH ranges of 3.0-10.0 and 10.0-12.0, respectively. While the emission at 500 nm increased gradually with increasing pH from 3.0 to 12.0. Two linear relationships were obtained between the synchronous fluorescence intensity ratio and pH in the ranges of 7.0-9.5 and 10.0-12.0 with a △pH of 0.1, indicating a broad detection range and high precision. Then the Si dots were used to detect urease activity via urea hydrolysis-mediated pH changes. A linear range of 1-80 U/L was established with a detection limit of 0.28 U/L. Furthermore, the Si dots were used for pH imaging in living HeLa cells. The cells changed from green to blue when the pH of HeLa cells increased from 6.0 to 10.0. SIGNIFICANCE These findings collectively suggest that the intrinsic dual-emitting Si dots may offer a simple and versatile platform for developing pH-relevant biosensors and bioimaging applications. Additionally, this approach provides reliable methods for preparing intrinsic dual-emitting probe and constructing fluorescence ratiometrics, which widely used in health status assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunmin Qiu
- College of Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518060, China; Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Synthetic Genomics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Synthetic Genomics, CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Guoqiang Wu
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Synthetic Genomics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Synthetic Genomics, CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, 518055, China; School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau SAR, China
| | - Puying Zhao
- College of Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518060, China
| | - Junbiao Dai
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Synthetic Genomics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Synthetic Genomics, CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, 518055, China; Shenzhen Branch, Guangdong Laboratory of Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Key Laboratory of Synthetic Biology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Agricultural Genomics Institute at Shenzhen, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shenzhen, 518000, China
| | - Qian Luo
- Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Liqing Zhao
- College of Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518060, China.
| | - Guobin Mao
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Synthetic Genomics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Synthetic Genomics, CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, 518055, China.
| | - Yingxin Ma
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Synthetic Genomics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Synthetic Genomics, CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, 518055, China.
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6
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Zhou ZR, Wu MS, Yang Z, Wu Y, Guo W, Li DW, Qian RC, Lu Y. Synthetic transmembrane DNA receptors enable engineered sensing and actuation. Nat Commun 2025; 16:1464. [PMID: 39920144 PMCID: PMC11806108 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-025-56758-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2025] [Indexed: 02/09/2025] Open
Abstract
In living organisms, cells synergistically couple cascade reaction pathways to achieve inter- and intracellular signal transduction by transmembrane protein receptors. The construction and assembly of synthetic receptor analogs that can mimic such biological processes is a central goal of synthetic biochemistry and bionanotechnology to endow receptors with user-defined signal transduction effects. However, designing artificial transmembrane receptors with the desired input, output, and performance parameters are challenging. Here we show that the dimerization of synthetic transmembrane DNA receptors executes a systematically engineered sensing and actuation cascade in response to external molecular signals. The synthetic DNA receptors are composed of three parts, including an extracellular signal reception part, a lipophilic transmembrane anchoring part, and an intracellular signal output part. Upon the input of external signals, the DNA receptors can form dimers on the cell surface triggered by configuration changes, leading to a series of downstream cascade events including communication between donor and recipient cells, gene transcription regulation, protein level control, and cell apoptosis. We believe this work establishes a flexible cell surface engineering strategy that is broadly applicable to implement sophisticated biological functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ze-Rui Zhou
- Key Laboratory for Advanced Materials. East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, P. R. China
- Feringa Nobel Prize Scientist Joint Research Center, Joint International Laboratory for Precision Chemistry. East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, P. R. China
- Frontiers Science Center for Materiobiology & Dynamic Chemistry. East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, P. R. China
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, P. R. China
- Department of Chemistry, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, 78712, USA
| | - Man-Sha Wu
- Key Laboratory for Advanced Materials. East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, P. R. China
- Feringa Nobel Prize Scientist Joint Research Center, Joint International Laboratory for Precision Chemistry. East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, P. R. China
- Frontiers Science Center for Materiobiology & Dynamic Chemistry. East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, P. R. China
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, P. R. China
| | - Zhenglin Yang
- Department of Chemistry, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, 78712, USA
| | - Yuting Wu
- Department of Chemistry, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, 78712, USA
| | - Weijie Guo
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, 78712, USA
| | - Da-Wei Li
- Key Laboratory for Advanced Materials. East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, P. R. China
- Feringa Nobel Prize Scientist Joint Research Center, Joint International Laboratory for Precision Chemistry. East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, P. R. China
- Frontiers Science Center for Materiobiology & Dynamic Chemistry. East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, P. R. China
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, P. R. China
| | - Ruo-Can Qian
- Key Laboratory for Advanced Materials. East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, P. R. China.
- Feringa Nobel Prize Scientist Joint Research Center, Joint International Laboratory for Precision Chemistry. East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, P. R. China.
- Frontiers Science Center for Materiobiology & Dynamic Chemistry. East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, P. R. China.
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, P. R. China.
| | - Yi Lu
- Department of Chemistry, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, 78712, USA.
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, 78712, USA.
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7
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Soto-Arriaza M, Cena Ahumada E, Bonardd S, Melendez J. Calcein release from DPPC liposomes by phospholipase A2 activity: Effect of cholesterol and amphipathic copolymers. J Liposome Res 2024; 34:617-629. [PMID: 38850012 DOI: 10.1080/08982104.2024.2361610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Revised: 05/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/25/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024]
Abstract
In this study, we evaluated the impact of incorporating diblock and triblock amphiphilic copolymers, as well as cholesterol into DPPC liposomes on the release of a model molecule, calcein, mediated by exogenous phospholipase A2 activity. Our findings show that calcein release slows down in the presence of copolymers at low concentration, while at high concentration, the calcein release profile resembles that of the DPPC control. Additionally, calcein release mediated by exogenous PLA2 decreases as the amount of solubilized cholesterol increases, with a maximum between 18 mol% and 20 mol%. At concentrations higher than 24 mol%, no calcein release was observed. Studies conducted on HEK-293 and HeLa cells revealed that DPPC liposomes reduced viability by only 5% and 12%, respectively, after 3 hours of incubation, while DPPC liposome in presence of 33 mol% of Cholesterol reduced viability by approximately 11% and 23%, respectively, during the same incubation period. For formulations containing copolymers at low and high concentrations, cell viability decreased by approximately 20% and 40%, respectively, after 3 hours of incubation. Based on these preliminary results, we can conclude that the presence of amphiphilic copolymers at low concentration can be used in the design of new DPPC liposomes, and together with cholesterol, they can modulate liposome stabilization. The new formulations showed low cytotoxicity in HEK-293 cells, and it was observed that calcein release depended entirely on PLA2 activity and the presence of calcium ions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Soto-Arriaza
- Escuela de Química y Farmacia, Facultad de Medicina y Ciencia, Universidad San Sebastián, Santiago, Chile
| | - Eduardo Cena Ahumada
- Instituto de Bioquímica y Microbiología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Sebastián Bonardd
- Centro de Física de Materiales (CSIC, UPV/EHU)-Materials Physics Center (MPC), Donostia-San Sebastían, Spain
- Department of Polymers and Advanced Materials: Physics, Chemistry and Technology, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Donostia-San Sebastian, Spain
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8
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Chen H, Zhou S, Ngocho K, Zheng J, He X, Huang J, Wang K, Shi H, Liu J. Oriented triplex DNA as a synthetic receptor for transmembrane signal transduction. Nat Commun 2024; 15:9789. [PMID: 39532841 PMCID: PMC11557920 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-53960-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2024] [Accepted: 10/29/2024] [Indexed: 11/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Signal transduction across biological membranes enables cells to detect and respond to diverse chemical or physical signals, and replicating these complex biological processes through synthetic methods is of significant interest in synthetic biology. Here we present an artificial signal transduction system using oriented cholesterol-tagged triplex DNA (TD) as synthetic receptors to transmit and amplify signals across lipid bilayer membranes through H+-mediated TD conformational transitions from duplex to triplex. An auxiliary sequence, complementary to the third strand of the TD, ensures a controlled and preferred outward orientation of cholesterol-tagged TD on membranes. Upon external H+ stimuli, the conformational change triggers the translocation of the third strand from the outer to the inner membrane leaflet, resulting in effective transmembrane signal transduction. This mechanism enables fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET), selective photocleavage, catalytic signal amplification, and logic gate modulation within vesicles. Our findings demonstrate that these TD-based receptors mimic the functional dynamics of natural G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), providing a foundation for advanced applications in biosensing, cell signaling modulation, and targeted drug delivery systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Key Laboratory for Bio-Nanotechnology and Molecular Engineering of Hunan Province, Hunan University, Changsha, People's Republic of China
| | - Shaohong Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Key Laboratory for Bio-Nanotechnology and Molecular Engineering of Hunan Province, Hunan University, Changsha, People's Republic of China
| | - Kleins Ngocho
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Key Laboratory for Bio-Nanotechnology and Molecular Engineering of Hunan Province, Hunan University, Changsha, People's Republic of China
| | - Jing Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Key Laboratory for Bio-Nanotechnology and Molecular Engineering of Hunan Province, Hunan University, Changsha, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoxiao He
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Key Laboratory for Bio-Nanotechnology and Molecular Engineering of Hunan Province, Hunan University, Changsha, People's Republic of China
| | - Jin Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Key Laboratory for Bio-Nanotechnology and Molecular Engineering of Hunan Province, Hunan University, Changsha, People's Republic of China
| | - Kemin Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Key Laboratory for Bio-Nanotechnology and Molecular Engineering of Hunan Province, Hunan University, Changsha, People's Republic of China
| | - Hui Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Key Laboratory for Bio-Nanotechnology and Molecular Engineering of Hunan Province, Hunan University, Changsha, People's Republic of China
| | - Jianbo Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Key Laboratory for Bio-Nanotechnology and Molecular Engineering of Hunan Province, Hunan University, Changsha, People's Republic of China.
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9
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Das R, Dutta R, Yi J, Qiu J, Krishna J, Tzafriri G, Lin Z, Thayumanavan S. Intramolecular Electrostatic Interactions Regulate Reactivity of Zwitterionic Functionalities in Amphiphilic Assemblies. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2024; 63:e202405868. [PMID: 38977413 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202405868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2024] [Revised: 06/25/2024] [Accepted: 07/04/2024] [Indexed: 07/10/2024]
Abstract
The consequences of intramolecular ionic interactions in determining the reactivity of functional groups are of interest because they provide insights into how nature deploys seemingly reactive functionalities to be rather ubiquitous. Of specific interest are the quaternary ammonium ions in lipids. In this work, we investigate the effect of intramolecular electrostatic interactions in zwitterionic functionalities by judiciously incorporating them as leaving groups at the α-position of α,β-unsaturated ester-based lipid head groups. We find that electrostatic stabilization indeed plays a critical role in both the reaction kinetics with nucleophiles and the thermodynamics of lipid formation. We further leverage these findings to fabricate both triggerable assembly and disassembly of liposomal supramolecular assemblies in the presence of nucleophiles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ritam Das
- Department of Chemistry, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA 01003, United States
| | - Ranit Dutta
- Department of Chemistry, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA 01003, United States
| | - Jun Yi
- Department of Chemistry, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA 01003, United States
| | - Jingyi Qiu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Centre for Bioactive Delivery-Institute for Applied Life Sciences, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA 01003, United States
| | - Jithu Krishna
- Department of Chemistry, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA 01003, United States
| | - Gideon Tzafriri
- Department of Chemistry, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA 01003, United States
| | - Zhou Lin
- Department of Chemistry, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA 01003, United States
| | - S Thayumanavan
- Department of Chemistry, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA 01003, United States
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Centre for Bioactive Delivery-Institute for Applied Life Sciences, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA 01003, United States
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10
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Sterin I, Tverdokhlebova A, Katz E, Smutok O. Time-Separated Pulse Release-Activation of an Enzyme from Alginate-Polyethylenimine Hydrogels Using Electrochemically Generated Local pH Changes. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2024; 16:28222-28229. [PMID: 38779815 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.4c05273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
β-Glucosidase (EC 3.2.1.21) from sweet almond was encapsulated into pH-responsive alginate-polyethylenimine (alginate-PEI) hydrogel. Then, electrochemically controlled cyclic local pH changes resulting from ascorbate oxidation (acidification) and oxygen reduction (basification) were used for the pulsatile release of the enzyme from the composite hydrogel. Activation of the enzyme was controlled by the very same pH changes used for β-glucosidase release, separating these two processes in time. Importantly, the activity of the enzyme, which had not been released yet, was inhibited due to the buffering effect of PEI present in the gel. Thus, only a portion of the released enzyme was activated. Both enzymatic activity and release were monitored by confocal fluorescence microscopy and regular fluorescent spectroscopy. Namely, commercially available very little or nonfluorescent substrate 4-methylumbelliferyl-β-d-glucopyranoside was hydrolyzed by β-glucosidase to produce a highly fluorescent product 4-methylumbelliferone during the activation phase. At the same time, labeling of the enzyme with rhodamine B isothiocyanate was used for release observation. The proposed work represents an interesting smart release-activation system with potential applications in biomedical field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilya Sterin
- Department of Chemistry and Biomolecular Science, Clarkson University, Potsdam, New York 13699, United States
| | - Anna Tverdokhlebova
- Department of Chemistry and Biomolecular Science, Clarkson University, Potsdam, New York 13699, United States
| | - Evgeny Katz
- Department of Chemistry and Biomolecular Science, Clarkson University, Potsdam, New York 13699, United States
| | - Oleh Smutok
- Department of Chemistry and Biomolecular Science, Clarkson University, Potsdam, New York 13699, United States
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11
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Waeterschoot J, Gosselé W, Lemež Š, Casadevall I Solvas X. Artificial cells for in vivo biomedical applications through red blood cell biomimicry. Nat Commun 2024; 15:2504. [PMID: 38509073 PMCID: PMC10954685 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-46732-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Recent research in artificial cell production holds promise for the development of delivery agents with therapeutic effects akin to real cells. To succeed in these applications, these systems need to survive the circulatory conditions. In this review we present strategies that, inspired by the endurance of red blood cells, have enhanced the viability of large, cell-like vehicles for in vivo therapeutic use, particularly focusing on giant unilamellar vesicles. Insights from red blood cells can guide modifications that could transform these platforms into advanced drug delivery vehicles, showcasing biomimicry's potential in shaping the future of therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorik Waeterschoot
- Department of Biosystems - MeBioS, KU Leuven, Willem de Croylaan 42, 3001, Leuven, Belgium.
| | - Willemien Gosselé
- Department of Biosystems - MeBioS, KU Leuven, Willem de Croylaan 42, 3001, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Špela Lemež
- Department of Biosystems - MeBioS, KU Leuven, Willem de Croylaan 42, 3001, Leuven, Belgium
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12
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Gabrielli L, Goldin L, Chandrabhas S, Dalla Valle A, Prins LJ. Chemical Information Processing by a Responsive Chemical System. J Am Chem Soc 2024; 146:2080-2088. [PMID: 38214581 PMCID: PMC10811666 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.3c11414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2023] [Revised: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024]
Abstract
Nature has an extraordinary capacity to precisely regulate the chemical reactivity in a highly complex mixture of molecules that is present in the cell. External stimuli lead to transient up- and downregulation of chemical reactions and provide a means for a cell to process information arriving from the environment. The development of synthetic chemical systems with life-like properties requires strategies that allow likewise control over chemical reactivity in a complex environment. Here, we show a synthetic system that mimics the initial steps that take place when a natural signal transduction pathway is activated. Monophosphate nucleosides act as chemical triggers for the self-assembly of nanoreactors that upregulate chemical reactions between reagents present at low micromolar concentrations. Different nucleotides template different assemblies and hence activate different pathways, thus establishing a distinct connection between input and output molecules. Trigger-induced upregulation of chemical reactivity occurs for only a limited amount of time because the chemical triggers are gradually removed from the system by enzymes. It is shown that the same system transiently produces different output molecules depending on the chemical input that is provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Gabrielli
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Padova, via F. Marzolo 1, Padova 35131, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Goldin
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Padova, via F. Marzolo 1, Padova 35131, Italy
| | - Sushmitha Chandrabhas
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Padova, via F. Marzolo 1, Padova 35131, Italy
| | - Andrea Dalla Valle
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Padova, via F. Marzolo 1, Padova 35131, Italy
| | - Leonard J. Prins
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Padova, via F. Marzolo 1, Padova 35131, Italy
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13
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Pang S, Liu J, Li T, Ye K, Yan Z, Zhao L, Bao C. Folding and Unfolding of a Fully Synthetic Transmembrane Receptor for ON/OFF Signal Transduction. J Am Chem Soc 2023; 145:20761-20766. [PMID: 37699413 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.3c07814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/14/2023]
Abstract
Signal transduction processes in living organisms are mainly transmitted through conformational changes in transmembrane protein receptors. So far, the development of signal transduction models induced by artificial simulation of conformational changes remains limited. We herein report a new artificial receptor that achieves controllable "ON/OFF" signal transduction through conformational changes between the folding and unfolding of a transmembrane foldamer moiety. The receptor contains three functional modules: a lipid-anchored cholic acid headgroup, a foldamer transmembrane moiety, and a precatalyst tailgroup. After inserting in the lipid membrane, the addition of Zn2+ induces unfolding of the foldamer, which changes the molecular conformation and activates the tailgroup to enter the cavity to perform its catalytic task, resulting in signal transduction in an "ON" state. By further adding a competitive ligand to bind Zn2+, the transduction can be turned "OFF". External signals can be used to reversibly switch intravesicular catalysis on and off, which provides a new model for constructing artificial signal transduction systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shihao Pang
- Key Laboratory for Advanced Materials and Joint International Research Laboratory of Precision Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Feringa Nobel Prize Scientist Joint Research Center, Frontiers Science Center for Materiobiology and Dynamic Chemistry, Institute of Fine Chemicals, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Jiawei Liu
- Key Laboratory for Advanced Materials and Joint International Research Laboratory of Precision Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Feringa Nobel Prize Scientist Joint Research Center, Frontiers Science Center for Materiobiology and Dynamic Chemistry, Institute of Fine Chemicals, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Tianlong Li
- School of Life Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130012, China
| | - Kai Ye
- Key Laboratory for Advanced Materials and Joint International Research Laboratory of Precision Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Feringa Nobel Prize Scientist Joint Research Center, Frontiers Science Center for Materiobiology and Dynamic Chemistry, Institute of Fine Chemicals, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Zexin Yan
- Key Laboratory for Advanced Materials and Joint International Research Laboratory of Precision Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Feringa Nobel Prize Scientist Joint Research Center, Frontiers Science Center for Materiobiology and Dynamic Chemistry, Institute of Fine Chemicals, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Li Zhao
- School of Life Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130012, China
| | - Chunyan Bao
- Key Laboratory for Advanced Materials and Joint International Research Laboratory of Precision Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Feringa Nobel Prize Scientist Joint Research Center, Frontiers Science Center for Materiobiology and Dynamic Chemistry, Institute of Fine Chemicals, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Optogenetic Techniques for Cell Metabolism, State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
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14
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Gartland SA, Johnson TG, Walkley E, Langton MJ. Inter-Vesicle Signal Transduction Using a Photo-Responsive Zinc Ionophore. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2023; 62:e202309080. [PMID: 37497854 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202309080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023]
Abstract
Transmission of chemical information between cells and across lipid bilayer membranes is of profound significance in many biological processes. The design of synthetic signalling systems is a critical step towards preparing artificial cells with collective behaviour. Here, we report the first example of a synthetic inter-vesicle signalling system, in which diffusible chemical signals trigger transmembrane ion transport in a manner reminiscent of signalling pathways in biology. The system is derived from novel ortho-nitrobenzyl and BODIPY photo-caged ZnII transporters, in which cation transport is triggered by photo-decaging with UV or red light, respectively. This decaging reaction can be used to trigger the release of the cationophores from a small population of sender vesicles. This in turn triggers the transport of ions across the membrane of a larger population of receiver vesicles, but not across the sender vesicle membrane, leading to overall inter-vesicle signal transduction and amplification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaun A Gartland
- Department of Chemistry, University of Oxford, Chemistry Research Laboratory, Mansfield Road, Oxford, OX1 3TA, UK
| | - Toby G Johnson
- Department of Chemistry, University of Oxford, Chemistry Research Laboratory, Mansfield Road, Oxford, OX1 3TA, UK
| | - Euan Walkley
- Department of Chemistry, University of Oxford, Chemistry Research Laboratory, Mansfield Road, Oxford, OX1 3TA, UK
| | - Matthew J Langton
- Department of Chemistry, University of Oxford, Chemistry Research Laboratory, Mansfield Road, Oxford, OX1 3TA, UK
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15
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Lin AJ, Sihorwala AZ, Belardi B. Engineering Tissue-Scale Properties with Synthetic Cells: Forging One from Many. ACS Synth Biol 2023; 12:1889-1907. [PMID: 37417657 PMCID: PMC11017731 DOI: 10.1021/acssynbio.3c00061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/08/2023]
Abstract
In metazoans, living cells achieve capabilities beyond individual cell functionality by assembling into multicellular tissue structures. These higher-order structures represent dynamic, heterogeneous, and responsive systems that have evolved to regenerate and coordinate their actions over large distances. Recent advances in constructing micrometer-sized vesicles, or synthetic cells, now point to a future where construction of synthetic tissue can be pursued, a boon to pressing material needs in biomedical implants, drug delivery systems, adhesives, filters, and storage devices, among others. To fully realize the potential of synthetic tissue, inspiration has been and will continue to be drawn from new molecular findings on its natural counterpart. In this review, we describe advances in introducing tissue-scale features into synthetic cell assemblies. Beyond mere complexation, synthetic cells have been fashioned with a variety of natural and engineered molecular components that serve as initial steps toward morphological control and patterning, intercellular communication, replication, and responsiveness in synthetic tissue. Particular attention has been paid to the dynamics, spatial constraints, and mechanical strengths of interactions that drive the synthesis of this next-generation material, describing how multiple synthetic cells can act as one.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander J Lin
- Department of Chemistry, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, United States
| | - Ahmed Z Sihorwala
- McKetta Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, United States
| | - Brian Belardi
- McKetta Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, United States
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16
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Woods B, Thompson KC, Szita N, Chen S, Milanesi L, Tomas S. Confinement effect on hydrolysis in small lipid vesicles. Chem Sci 2023; 14:2616-2623. [PMID: 36908967 PMCID: PMC9993861 DOI: 10.1039/d2sc05747f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/05/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
In living organisms most chemical reactions take place within the confines of lipid-membrane bound compartments, while confinement within the bounds of a lipid membrane is thought to be a key step in abiogenesis. In previous work we demonstrated that confinement in the aqueous cavity of a lipid vesicle affords protection against hydrolysis, a phenomenon that we term here confinement effect (C e) and that we attributed to the interaction with the lipid membrane. Here, we show that both the size and the shape of the cavity of the vesicle modulate the C e. We link this observation to the packing of the lipid following changes in membrane curvature, and formulate a mathematical model that relates the C e to the radius of a spherical vesicle and the packing parameter of the lipids. These results suggest that the shape of the compartment where a molecule is located plays a major role in controlling the chemical reactivity of non-enzymatic reactions. Moreover, the mathematical treatment we propose offers a useful tool for the design of vesicles with predictable reaction rates of the confined molecules, e.g., drug delivery vesicles with confined prodrugs. The results also show that a crude form of signal transduction, devoid of complex biological machinery, can be achieved by any external stimuli that drastically changes the structure of the membrane, like the osmotic shocks used in the present work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben Woods
- Department of Biological Sciences and Institute of Structural and Molecular Biology, Birkbeck, University of London Malet Street London WC1E 7HX UK
| | - Katherine C Thompson
- Department of Biological Sciences and Institute of Structural and Molecular Biology, Birkbeck, University of London Malet Street London WC1E 7HX UK
| | - Nicolas Szita
- Department of Biochemical Engineering, University College London, Bernard Katz Building Gordon Street London WC1H 0AH UK
| | - Shu Chen
- Department of Biological Sciences and Institute of Structural and Molecular Biology, Birkbeck, University of London Malet Street London WC1E 7HX UK
| | - Lilia Milanesi
- Department of Chemistry, University of the Balearic Islands Ctra. de Valldemossa, Km 7.5 07122 Palma de Mallorca Spain
| | - Salvador Tomas
- Department of Biological Sciences and Institute of Structural and Molecular Biology, Birkbeck, University of London Malet Street London WC1E 7HX UK.,Department of Chemistry, University of the Balearic Islands Ctra. de Valldemossa, Km 7.5 07122 Palma de Mallorca Spain
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17
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Blanco IMR, Barbosa RDM, Borges JMP, de Melo SABV, El-Bachá RDS, Viseras C, Severino P, Sanchez-Lopez E, Souto EB, Cabral-Albuquerque E. Conventional and PEGylated Liposomes as Vehicles of Copaifera sabulicola. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15020671. [PMID: 36839993 PMCID: PMC9960246 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15020671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Traditional medicine uses resin oils extracted from plants of the genus Copaifera for several purposes. Resin oils are being studied to understand and profile their pharmacological properties. The aim of this work was to prepare and to characterize conventional and pegylated liposomes incorporating resin oils or the hexanic extract obtained from Copaifera sabulicola (copaiba) leaves. The cytotoxic effect of these products was also investigated. Conventional and stealth liposomes with copaiba extract showed similar average diameters (around 126 nm), encapsulation efficiencies greater than 75% and were stable for 90 days. A cytotoxicity test was performed on murine glioma cells and the developed liposomes presented antiproliferative action against these cancer cells at the average concentration of 30 μg/mL. Phytochemicals encapsulated in PEGylated liposomes induced greater reduction in the viability of tumor cells. In addition, bioassay-s measured the cytotoxicity of copaiba resin oil (Copaifera sabulicola) in liposomes (conventional and PEGylated), which was also checked against pheochromocytoma PC12 cells. Its safety was verified in normal rat astrocytes. The results indicate that liposomes encapsulating copaiba oil showed cytotoxic activity against the studied tumor strains in a dose-dependent fashion, demonstrating their potential applications as a chemotherapeutic bioactive formulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian M. R. Blanco
- Industrial Engineering Program, Polytechnic School, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador 40210-630, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Raquel de Melo Barbosa
- Department of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology, School of Pharmacy, University of Granada, Campus of Cartuja s/n, 18071 Granada, Spain
- Correspondence: (R.d.M.B.); (E.B.S.)
| | - Julita M. P. Borges
- Department of Science and Technology, State University of Southwestern Bahia, Salvador 45083-900, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Silvio A. B. Vieira de Melo
- Industrial Engineering Program, Polytechnic School, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador 40210-630, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Ramon dos Santos El-Bachá
- Laboratory of Neurochemistry and Cell Biology, Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Institute of Health Sciences, UFBA, Salvador 40170-110, Bahia, Brazil
| | - César Viseras
- Department of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology, School of Pharmacy, University of Granada, Campus of Cartuja s/n, 18071 Granada, Spain
| | - Patricia Severino
- Biotechnological Postgraduate Program, Tiradentes University, Aracaju 49010-390, Sergipe, Brazil
| | - Elena Sanchez-Lopez
- Department of Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Technology and Physical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, University of Barcelona, 08007 Barcelona, Spain
- Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (IN2UB), University of Barcelona, 08007 Barcelona, Spain
- Unit of Synthesis and Biomedical Applications of Peptides, IQAC-CSIC, 08034 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Eliana B. Souto
- UCIBIO—Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, MEDTECH, Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Drug Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
- Associate Laboratory i4HB, Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
- Correspondence: (R.d.M.B.); (E.B.S.)
| | - Elaine Cabral-Albuquerque
- Industrial Engineering Program, Polytechnic School, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador 40210-630, Bahia, Brazil
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18
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Sihorwala AZ, Lin AJ, Stachowiak JC, Belardi B. Light-Activated Assembly of Connexon Nanopores in Synthetic Cells. J Am Chem Soc 2023; 145:3561-3568. [PMID: 36724060 PMCID: PMC10188233 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.2c12491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
During developmental processes and wound healing, activation of living cells occurs with spatiotemporal precision and leads to rapid release of soluble molecular signals, allowing communication and coordination between neighbors. Nonliving systems capable of similar responsive release hold great promise for information transfer in materials and site-specific drug delivery. One nonliving system that offers a tunable platform for programming release is synthetic cells. Encased in a lipid bilayer structure, synthetic cells can be outfitted with molecular conduits that span the bilayer and lead to material exchange. While previous work expressing membrane pore proteins in synthetic cells demonstrated content exchange, user-defined control over release has remained elusive. In mammalian cells, connexon nanopore structures drive content release and have garnered significant interest since they can direct material exchange through intercellular contacts. Here, we focus on connexon nanopores and present activated release of material from synthetic cells in a light-sensitive fashion. To do this, we re-engineer connexon nanopores to assemble after post-translational processing by a protease. By encapsulating proteases in light-sensitive liposomes, we show that assembly of nanopores can be triggered by illumination, resulting in rapid release of molecules encapsulated within synthetic cells. Controlling connexon nanopore activity provides an opportunity for initiating communication with extracellular signals and for transferring molecular agents to the cytoplasm of living cells in a rapid, light-guided manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Z Sihorwala
- McKetta Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, United States
| | - Alexander J Lin
- Department of Chemistry, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, United States
| | - Jeanne C Stachowiak
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, United States
| | - Brian Belardi
- McKetta Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, United States
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19
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Wu H, Zheng L, Ling N, Zheng L, Du Y, Zhang Q, Liu Y, Tan W, Qiu L. Chemically Synthetic Membrane Receptors Establish Cells with Artificial Sense-and-Respond Signaling Pathways. J Am Chem Soc 2023; 145:2315-2321. [PMID: 36656150 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.2c10903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Chemically synthetic receptors that establish cells a new sense-and-respond capability to interact with outer worlds are highly desired, but rarely reported. In this work, we develop a membrane-anchored synthetic receptor (Ts-pHLIP-Pr) using DNA and peptide as the building block to equip cells with artificial signaling pathways. Upon sensing external pH stimuli, the Pr module can be translocated across the cell membrane via the conformation switch of pHLIP, enabling membrane-proximal recruitment of specific proteins to trigger downstream signaling cascades. Our experimental results demonstrate the capability of Ts-pHLIP-Pr for regulating PKCε-related signaling events upon responding to external pH reduction. With a modular feature, this receptor can be extended to elicit T cell activation through low-pH environment-induced directional movement of cytoplasmic ZAP70. Our work is expected to offer a new paradigm for intelligent synthetic biology and customized cell engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Wu
- Molecular Science and Biomedicine Laboratory (MBL), State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, College of Biology, Aptamer Engineering Center of Hunan Province, Hunan University, Changsha, Hunan 410082, China
| | - Linyan Zheng
- Molecular Science and Biomedicine Laboratory (MBL), State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, College of Biology, Aptamer Engineering Center of Hunan Province, Hunan University, Changsha, Hunan 410082, China
| | - Neng Ling
- Molecular Science and Biomedicine Laboratory (MBL), State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, College of Biology, Aptamer Engineering Center of Hunan Province, Hunan University, Changsha, Hunan 410082, China
| | - Liyan Zheng
- Molecular Science and Biomedicine Laboratory (MBL), State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, College of Biology, Aptamer Engineering Center of Hunan Province, Hunan University, Changsha, Hunan 410082, China
| | - Yulin Du
- Molecular Science and Biomedicine Laboratory (MBL), State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, College of Biology, Aptamer Engineering Center of Hunan Province, Hunan University, Changsha, Hunan 410082, China
| | - Qiang Zhang
- Molecular Science and Biomedicine Laboratory (MBL), State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, College of Biology, Aptamer Engineering Center of Hunan Province, Hunan University, Changsha, Hunan 410082, China
| | - Yue Liu
- Molecular Science and Biomedicine Laboratory (MBL), State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, College of Biology, Aptamer Engineering Center of Hunan Province, Hunan University, Changsha, Hunan 410082, China
| | - Weihong Tan
- Molecular Science and Biomedicine Laboratory (MBL), State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, College of Biology, Aptamer Engineering Center of Hunan Province, Hunan University, Changsha, Hunan 410082, China.,Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM), The Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310022, China.,Institute of Molecular Medicine (IMM), Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Liping Qiu
- Molecular Science and Biomedicine Laboratory (MBL), State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, College of Biology, Aptamer Engineering Center of Hunan Province, Hunan University, Changsha, Hunan 410082, China.,Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM), The Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310022, China
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20
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Li B, Teng J, Chen S, Yang J, Liu X, Zhang J, Zhao Y. A dual‐stimuli responsive supramolecular nanovector anchoring folic acid ligands for targeted delivery of anti‐colorectal drug hydroxycamptothecin. J Appl Polym Sci 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/app.53525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Bi‐Lian Li
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Yunnan Normal University Kunming People's Republic of China
| | - Jin‐Kui Teng
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Yunnan Normal University Kunming People's Republic of China
| | - Shuai Chen
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Yunnan Normal University Kunming People's Republic of China
| | - Jian‐Mei Yang
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Yunnan Normal University Kunming People's Republic of China
| | - Xiao‐Qing Liu
- Shenzhen Kewode Technology Co., Ltd Shenzhen People's Republic of China
| | - Jin Zhang
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Yunnan Normal University Kunming People's Republic of China
| | - Yan Zhao
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Yunnan Normal University Kunming People's Republic of China
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21
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Wootten MM, Tshepelevitsh S, Leito I, Clayden J. A Chemically Fuelled Molecular Automaton Displaying Programmed Migration of Zn 2+ Between Alternative Binding Sites. Chemistry 2022; 28:e202202247. [PMID: 35880579 PMCID: PMC9804598 DOI: 10.1002/chem.202202247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
A molecular system comprising a cationic zinc complex and an amino acid-derived ambident ligand having phosphate and carboxylate binding sites undergoes a series of rearrangements in which the metal cation migrates autonomously from one site to another. The location of the metal is identified by the circular dichroism spectrum of a ligated bis(2-quinolylmethyl)-(2-pyridylmethyl)amine (BQPA) chromophore, which takes a characteristic shape at each binding site. Migration is fuelled by the decomposition of trichloroacetic acid to CO2 and CHCl3 , which progressively neutralises the acidity of the system as a function of time, revealing in sequence binding sites of increasing basicity. The migration rate responds to control by variation of the temperature, water content and triethylamine concentration, while an excess of fuel controls the duration of an induction period before the migration event.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Ivo Leito
- Institute of ChemistryUniversity of TartuRavila 14aTartu50411Estonia
| | - Jonathan Clayden
- School of ChemistryUniversity of BristolCantock's CloseBristolBS8 1TSUK
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22
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Ghorbani-Choghamarani A, Taherinia Z. Recent advances utilized in artificial switchable catalysis. RSC Adv 2022; 12:23595-23617. [PMID: 36090388 PMCID: PMC9389550 DOI: 10.1039/d2ra03842k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Developing "green" catalytic systems with desirable performance such as solubility, recyclability, and switchability is a great challenge. However, inspired by nature, the studies on synthesis and activity of artificial switchable metal catalysts and organocatalysts have become an intense, fervid, and challenging field of research. The peculiarity of these catalysts is that they can be generally triggered in the "on" or "off" states by several external stimuli such as light, heat, solvents, pH change, coordination events or ion influxes, redox processes, mechanical forces, or other changes in reaction conditions. A large number of review articles are available in these areas. However, most efforts are currently focused on the invention of new types of switchable catalysts with different forms of stimuli-response units incorporated within their architectures in order to achieve control over the catalytic activity and regio-, chemo- and stereocontrol of various chemical reactions. Thus, in this review, we begin with a brief introduction to switchable catalysts, followed by discussion of types of stimuli and the influence factors on their activities in the field of biomedical engineering, and catalysis as well as related catalytic mechanisms summarized and discussed. The emphasis is on the recent advances utilized in artificial switchable catalysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arash Ghorbani-Choghamarani
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Bu-Ali Sina University Hamedan 6517838683 Iran +98 8138380709 +98 8138282807
| | - Zahra Taherinia
- Department of Chemistry, Ilam University P. O. Box 69315516 Ilam Iran
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23
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Hou J, Jiang X, Yang F, Wang L, Yan T, Liu S, Xu J, Hou C, Luo Q, Liu J. Supramolecularly regulated artificial transmembrane signal transduction for 'ON/OFF'-switchable enzyme catalysis. Chem Commun (Camb) 2022; 58:5725-5728. [PMID: 35441622 DOI: 10.1039/d2cc01421a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
An artificial signal transduction model with a supramolecular recognition headgroup, a membrane anchoring group, and a pro-enzyme catalysis endgroup was constructed. The transmembrane translocation of the transducer can be reversibly regulated by competitive host-guest complexations as an input signal to control an enzyme reaction inside the lipid vesicles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinxing Hou
- State Key Laboratory of Supramolecular Structure and Materials, College of Chemistry, Jilin University, 2699 Qianjin Road, Changchun 130012, China.
| | - Xiaojia Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Supramolecular Structure and Materials, College of Chemistry, Jilin University, 2699 Qianjin Road, Changchun 130012, China.
| | - Feihu Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Supramolecular Structure and Materials, College of Chemistry, Jilin University, 2699 Qianjin Road, Changchun 130012, China.
| | - Liang Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Supramolecular Structure and Materials, College of Chemistry, Jilin University, 2699 Qianjin Road, Changchun 130012, China.
| | - Tengfei Yan
- College of Material, Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou 311121, China
| | - Shengda Liu
- College of Material, Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou 311121, China
| | - Jiayun Xu
- College of Material, Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou 311121, China
| | - Chunxi Hou
- State Key Laboratory of Supramolecular Structure and Materials, College of Chemistry, Jilin University, 2699 Qianjin Road, Changchun 130012, China.
| | - Quan Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Supramolecular Structure and Materials, College of Chemistry, Jilin University, 2699 Qianjin Road, Changchun 130012, China. .,Key Laboratory for Molecular Enzymology and Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Life Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130012, China.,Key Laboratory of Emergency and Trauma, Ministry of Education, College of Emergency and Trauma, Hainan Medical University, Haikou 571199, China
| | - Junqiu Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Supramolecular Structure and Materials, College of Chemistry, Jilin University, 2699 Qianjin Road, Changchun 130012, China. .,College of Material, Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou 311121, China
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24
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Sato W, Zajkowski T, Moser F, Adamala KP. Synthetic cells in biomedical applications. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS. NANOMEDICINE AND NANOBIOTECHNOLOGY 2022; 14:e1761. [PMID: 34725945 PMCID: PMC8918002 DOI: 10.1002/wnan.1761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2020] [Revised: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Synthetic cells are engineered vesicles that can mimic one or more salient features of life. These features include directed localization, sense-and-respond behavior, gene expression, metabolism, and high stability. In nanomedicine, many of these features are desirable capabilities of drug delivery vehicles but are difficult to engineer. In this focus article, we discuss where synthetic cells offer unique advantages over nanoparticle and living cell therapies. We review progress in the engineering of the above life-like behaviors and how they are deployed in nanomedicine. Finally, we assess key challenges synthetic cells face before being deployed as drugs and suggest ways to overcome these challenges. This article is categorized under: Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Emerging Technologies Biology-Inspired Nanomaterials > Lipid-Based Structures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wakana Sato
- 1 Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Development, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN US
| | - Tomasz Zajkowski
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, S. Banacha 2c, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
- USRA at NASA Ames Research Center, Mountain View, CA 94035
- Blue Marble Space Institute of Science, 600 1st Avenue, Seattle WA 98104
| | - Felix Moser
- Synlife, Inc., One Kendall Square Suite B4401, Cambridge, MA 20139
| | - Katarzyna P. Adamala
- 1 Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Development, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN US
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25
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Lateral organization of biomimetic cell membranes in varying pH conditions. J Mol Liq 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.molliq.2021.117907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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26
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Bravin C, Duindam N, Hunter CA. Artificial transmembrane signal transduction mediated by dynamic covalent chemistry. Chem Sci 2021; 12:14059-14064. [PMID: 34760189 PMCID: PMC8565364 DOI: 10.1039/d1sc04741h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Reversible formation of covalent adducts between a thiol and a membrane-anchored Michael acceptor has been used to control the activation of a caged enzyme encapsulated inside vesicles. A peptide substrate and papain, caged as the mixed disulfide with methane thiol, were encapsulated inside vesicles, which contained Michael acceptors embedded in the lipid bilayer. In the absence of the Michael acceptor, addition of thiols to the external aqueous solution did not activate the enzyme to any significant extent. In the presence of the Michael acceptor, addition of benzyl thiol led to uncaging of the enzyme and hydrolysis of the peptide substrate to generate a fluorescence output signal. A charged thiol used as the input signal did not activate the enzyme. A Michael acceptor with a polar head group that cannot cross the lipid bilayer was just as effective at delivering benzyl thiol to the inner compartment of the vesicles as a non-polar Michael acceptor that can diffuse across the bilayer. The concentration dependence of the output signal suggests that the mechanism of signal transduction is based on increasing the local concentration of thiol present in the vesicles by the formation of Michael adducts. An interesting feature of this system is that enzyme activation is transient, which means that sequential addition of aliquots of thiol can be used to repeatedly generate an output signal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Bravin
- Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge Lensfield Road Cambridge CB2 1EW UK
| | - Nol Duindam
- Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge Lensfield Road Cambridge CB2 1EW UK
| | - Christopher A Hunter
- Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge Lensfield Road Cambridge CB2 1EW UK
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27
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Liu G, Huang S, Liu X, Chen W, Ma X, Cao S, Wang L, Chen L, Yang H. DNA-Based Artificial Signaling System Mimicking the Dimerization of Receptors for Signal Transduction and Amplification. Anal Chem 2021; 93:13807-13814. [PMID: 34613712 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.1c02405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Transmembrane signal transduction is of profound significance in many biological processes. The dimerization of cell-surface receptors is one prominent mechanism by which signals are transmitted across the membrane and trigger intracellular cascade amplification reactions. Recreating such processes in artificial systems has potential applications in sensing, drug delivery, bioengineering, and providing a new route for a deep understanding of fundamental biological processes. However, it remains a challenge to design artificial signal transduction systems working by the receptor dimerization mechanism in a predictable and smart manner. Here, benefitting from DNA with features of programmability, controllability, and flexible design, we use DNA as a building material to construct an artificial system mimicking dimerization of receptors for signal transduction and cascade amplification. DNA-based membrane-spanning receptor analogues are designed to recognize external signals, which drives two receptors into close spatial proximity to activate DNAzymes inside the cell-mimicking system. The activation of the DNAzyme initiates the catalyzed cleavage of encapsulated substrates and leads to the release of fluorescent second messengers for signal amplification. Such an artificial signal transduction system extends the range of biomimetic DNA-based signaling systems, providing a new avenue to study natural cell signaling processes and artificially regulate biological processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guo Liu
- MOE Key Laboratory for Analytical Science of Food Safety and Biology, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Analysis and Detection Technology for Food Safety, State Key Laboratory of Photocatalysis on Energy and Environment, College of Chemistry, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350108, P. R. China
| | - Shan Huang
- MOE Key Laboratory for Analytical Science of Food Safety and Biology, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Analysis and Detection Technology for Food Safety, State Key Laboratory of Photocatalysis on Energy and Environment, College of Chemistry, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350108, P. R. China
| | - Xiaochen Liu
- MOE Key Laboratory for Analytical Science of Food Safety and Biology, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Analysis and Detection Technology for Food Safety, State Key Laboratory of Photocatalysis on Energy and Environment, College of Chemistry, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350108, P. R. China
| | - Wanzhen Chen
- MOE Key Laboratory for Analytical Science of Food Safety and Biology, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Analysis and Detection Technology for Food Safety, State Key Laboratory of Photocatalysis on Energy and Environment, College of Chemistry, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350108, P. R. China
| | - Xin Ma
- MOE Key Laboratory for Analytical Science of Food Safety and Biology, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Analysis and Detection Technology for Food Safety, State Key Laboratory of Photocatalysis on Energy and Environment, College of Chemistry, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350108, P. R. China
| | - Shuang Cao
- MOE Key Laboratory for Analytical Science of Food Safety and Biology, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Analysis and Detection Technology for Food Safety, State Key Laboratory of Photocatalysis on Energy and Environment, College of Chemistry, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350108, P. R. China
| | - Liping Wang
- MOE Key Laboratory for Analytical Science of Food Safety and Biology, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Analysis and Detection Technology for Food Safety, State Key Laboratory of Photocatalysis on Energy and Environment, College of Chemistry, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350108, P. R. China
| | - Lanlan Chen
- MOE Key Laboratory for Analytical Science of Food Safety and Biology, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Analysis and Detection Technology for Food Safety, State Key Laboratory of Photocatalysis on Energy and Environment, College of Chemistry, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350108, P. R. China
| | - Huanghao Yang
- MOE Key Laboratory for Analytical Science of Food Safety and Biology, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Analysis and Detection Technology for Food Safety, State Key Laboratory of Photocatalysis on Energy and Environment, College of Chemistry, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350108, P. R. China
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28
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Shivanna M, Otake K, Song B, van Wyk LM, Yang Q, Kumar N, Feldmann WK, Pham T, Suepaul S, Space B, Barbour LJ, Kitagawa S, Zaworotko MJ. Benchmark Acetylene Binding Affinity and Separation through Induced Fit in a Flexible Hybrid Ultramicroporous Material. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2021; 60:20383-20390. [PMID: 34250717 PMCID: PMC8457195 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202106263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Structural changes at the active site of an enzyme induced by binding to a substrate molecule can result in enhanced activity in biological systems. Herein, we report that the new hybrid ultramicroporous material sql-SIFSIX-bpe-Zn exhibits an induced fit binding mechanism when exposed to acetylene, C2 H2 . The resulting phase change affords exceptionally strong C2 H2 binding that in turn enables highly selective C2 H2 /C2 H4 and C2 H2 /CO2 separation demonstrated by dynamic breakthrough experiments. sql-SIFSIX-bpe-Zn was observed to exhibit at least four phases: as-synthesised (α); activated (β); and C2 H2 induced phases (β' and γ). sql-SIFSIX-bpe-Zn-β exhibited strong affinity for C2 H2 at ambient conditions as demonstrated by benchmark isosteric heat of adsorption (Qst ) of 67.5 kJ mol-1 validated through in situ pressure gradient differential scanning calorimetry (PG-DSC). Further, in situ characterisation and DFT calculations provide insight into the mechanism of the C2 H2 induced fit transformation, binding positions and the nature of host-guest and guest-guest interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohana Shivanna
- Department of Chemical SciencesBernal InstituteUniversity of LimerickLimerickV94 T9PXRepublic of Ireland
- Institute for Integrated Cell-Material SciencesKyoto University Institute for Advanced Study, Kyoto UniversityYoshida Ushinomiya-cho, Sakyo-kuKyoto606-8501Japan
| | - Ken‐ichi Otake
- Institute for Integrated Cell-Material SciencesKyoto University Institute for Advanced Study, Kyoto UniversityYoshida Ushinomiya-cho, Sakyo-kuKyoto606-8501Japan
| | - Bai‐Qiao Song
- Department of Chemical SciencesBernal InstituteUniversity of LimerickLimerickV94 T9PXRepublic of Ireland
| | - Lisa M. van Wyk
- Department of Chemistry and Polymer ScienceStellenbosch UniversityMatieland7602South Africa
| | - Qing‐Yuan Yang
- Department of Chemical SciencesBernal InstituteUniversity of LimerickLimerickV94 T9PXRepublic of Ireland
| | - Naveen Kumar
- Department of Chemical SciencesBernal InstituteUniversity of LimerickLimerickV94 T9PXRepublic of Ireland
| | - Wesley K. Feldmann
- Department of Chemistry and Polymer ScienceStellenbosch UniversityMatieland7602South Africa
| | - Tony Pham
- Department of ChemistryUniversity of South Florida4202 East Fowler AvenueTampaFL33620USA
- Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry, and PhysicsThe University of Tampa401 West Kennedy BoulevardTampaFL33606-1490USA
| | - Shanelle Suepaul
- Department of ChemistryUniversity of South Florida4202 East Fowler AvenueTampaFL33620USA
| | - Brian Space
- Department of ChemistryUniversity of South Florida4202 East Fowler AvenueTampaFL33620USA
| | - Leonard J. Barbour
- Department of Chemistry and Polymer ScienceStellenbosch UniversityMatieland7602South Africa
| | - Susumu Kitagawa
- Institute for Integrated Cell-Material SciencesKyoto University Institute for Advanced Study, Kyoto UniversityYoshida Ushinomiya-cho, Sakyo-kuKyoto606-8501Japan
| | - Michael J. Zaworotko
- Department of Chemical SciencesBernal InstituteUniversity of LimerickLimerickV94 T9PXRepublic of Ireland
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29
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Bickerton LE, Johnson TG, Kerckhoffs A, Langton MJ. Supramolecular chemistry in lipid bilayer membranes. Chem Sci 2021; 12:11252-11274. [PMID: 34567493 PMCID: PMC8409493 DOI: 10.1039/d1sc03545b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Lipid bilayer membranes form compartments requisite for life. Interfacing supramolecular systems, including receptors, catalysts, signal transducers and ion transporters, enables the function of the membrane to be controlled in artificial and living cellular compartments. In this perspective, we take stock of the current state of the art of this rapidly expanding field, and discuss prospects for the future in both fundamental science and applications in biology and medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura E Bickerton
- Department of Chemistry, University of Oxford Chemistry Research Laboratory 12 Mansfield Road Oxford OX1 3TA UK
| | - Toby G Johnson
- Department of Chemistry, University of Oxford Chemistry Research Laboratory 12 Mansfield Road Oxford OX1 3TA UK
| | - Aidan Kerckhoffs
- Department of Chemistry, University of Oxford Chemistry Research Laboratory 12 Mansfield Road Oxford OX1 3TA UK
| | - Matthew J Langton
- Department of Chemistry, University of Oxford Chemistry Research Laboratory 12 Mansfield Road Oxford OX1 3TA UK
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30
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Shivanna M, Otake K, Song B, Wyk LM, Yang Q, Kumar N, Feldmann WK, Pham T, Suepaul S, Space B, Barbour LJ, Kitagawa S, Zaworotko MJ. Benchmark Acetylene Binding Affinity and Separation through Induced Fit in a Flexible Hybrid Ultramicroporous Material. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.202106263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mohana Shivanna
- Department of Chemical Sciences Bernal Institute University of Limerick Limerick V94 T9PX Republic of Ireland
- Institute for Integrated Cell-Material Sciences Kyoto University Institute for Advanced Study, Kyoto University Yoshida Ushinomiya-cho, Sakyo-ku Kyoto 606-8501 Japan
| | - Ken‐ichi Otake
- Institute for Integrated Cell-Material Sciences Kyoto University Institute for Advanced Study, Kyoto University Yoshida Ushinomiya-cho, Sakyo-ku Kyoto 606-8501 Japan
| | - Bai‐Qiao Song
- Department of Chemical Sciences Bernal Institute University of Limerick Limerick V94 T9PX Republic of Ireland
| | - Lisa M. Wyk
- Department of Chemistry and Polymer Science Stellenbosch University Matieland 7602 South Africa
| | - Qing‐Yuan Yang
- Department of Chemical Sciences Bernal Institute University of Limerick Limerick V94 T9PX Republic of Ireland
| | - Naveen Kumar
- Department of Chemical Sciences Bernal Institute University of Limerick Limerick V94 T9PX Republic of Ireland
| | - Wesley K. Feldmann
- Department of Chemistry and Polymer Science Stellenbosch University Matieland 7602 South Africa
| | - Tony Pham
- Department of Chemistry University of South Florida 4202 East Fowler Avenue Tampa FL 33620 USA
- Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry, and Physics The University of Tampa 401 West Kennedy Boulevard Tampa FL 33606-1490 USA
| | - Shanelle Suepaul
- Department of Chemistry University of South Florida 4202 East Fowler Avenue Tampa FL 33620 USA
| | - Brian Space
- Department of Chemistry University of South Florida 4202 East Fowler Avenue Tampa FL 33620 USA
| | - Leonard J. Barbour
- Department of Chemistry and Polymer Science Stellenbosch University Matieland 7602 South Africa
| | - Susumu Kitagawa
- Institute for Integrated Cell-Material Sciences Kyoto University Institute for Advanced Study, Kyoto University Yoshida Ushinomiya-cho, Sakyo-ku Kyoto 606-8501 Japan
| | - Michael J. Zaworotko
- Department of Chemical Sciences Bernal Institute University of Limerick Limerick V94 T9PX Republic of Ireland
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31
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Chen H, Zhou L, Li C, He X, Huang J, Yang X, Shi H, Wang K, Liu J. Controlled dimerization of artificial membrane receptors for transmembrane signal transduction. Chem Sci 2021; 12:8224-8230. [PMID: 34194713 PMCID: PMC8208304 DOI: 10.1039/d1sc00718a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
In biology, membrane-spanning proteins are responsible for the transmission of chemical signals across membranes, including the signal recognition-mediated conformational change of transmembrane receptors at the cell surface, and a trigger of an intracellular phosphorylation cascade. The ability to reproduce such biological processes in artificial systems has potential applications in smart sensing, drug delivery, and synthetic biology. Here, an artificial transmembrane receptors signaling system was designed and constructed based on modular DNA scaffolds. The artificial transmembrane receptors in this system are composed of three functional modules: signal recognition, lipophilic transmembrane linker, and signal output modules. Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) served as an external signal input to trigger the dimerization of two artificial receptors on membranes through a proximity effect. This effect induced the formation of a G-quadruplex, which served as a peroxidase-like enzyme to facilitate a signal output measured by either fluorescence or absorbance in the lipid bilayer vesicles. The broader utility of this modular method was further demonstrated using a lysozyme-binding aptamer instead of an ATP-binding aptamer. Therefore, this work provides a modular and generalizable method for the design of artificial transmembrane receptors. The flexibility of this synthetic methodology will allow researchers to incorporate different functional modules while retaining the same molecular framework for signal transduction. An artificial transmbrane signal transducer was developed through the chemical input-mediated dimerization of artificial DNA transmembrane receptors and the subsequent activation of a cascade of events inside the vesicles.![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Biology, Key Laboratory for Bio-Nanotechnology and Molecular Engineering of Hunan Province, Hunan University Changsha 410082 P. R. China
| | - Li Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Biology, Key Laboratory for Bio-Nanotechnology and Molecular Engineering of Hunan Province, Hunan University Changsha 410082 P. R. China
| | - Chunying Li
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Biology, Key Laboratory for Bio-Nanotechnology and Molecular Engineering of Hunan Province, Hunan University Changsha 410082 P. R. China
| | - Xiaoxiao He
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Biology, Key Laboratory for Bio-Nanotechnology and Molecular Engineering of Hunan Province, Hunan University Changsha 410082 P. R. China
| | - Jin Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Biology, Key Laboratory for Bio-Nanotechnology and Molecular Engineering of Hunan Province, Hunan University Changsha 410082 P. R. China
| | - Xiaohai Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Biology, Key Laboratory for Bio-Nanotechnology and Molecular Engineering of Hunan Province, Hunan University Changsha 410082 P. R. China
| | - Hui Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Biology, Key Laboratory for Bio-Nanotechnology and Molecular Engineering of Hunan Province, Hunan University Changsha 410082 P. R. China
| | - Kemin Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Biology, Key Laboratory for Bio-Nanotechnology and Molecular Engineering of Hunan Province, Hunan University Changsha 410082 P. R. China
| | - Jianbo Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Biology, Key Laboratory for Bio-Nanotechnology and Molecular Engineering of Hunan Province, Hunan University Changsha 410082 P. R. China
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32
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Safari Yazd H, Yang Y, Li L, Yang L, Li X, Pan X, Chen Z, Jiang J, Cui C, Tan W. Precise Deposition of Polydopamine on Cancer Cell Membrane as Artificial Receptor for Targeted Drug Delivery. iScience 2020; 23:101750. [PMID: 33367224 PMCID: PMC7749375 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2020.101750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2020] [Revised: 08/02/2020] [Accepted: 10/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Compared with conventional chemotherapy and radiotherapy, targeted molecular therapy, e.g., antibody-drug conjugates or aptamer-drug conjugates, can specifically identify overexpressed natural receptors on the cancer cell, perform targeted release of anticancer drugs, and achieve targeted killing of tumor cells. However, many natural receptors are also expressed on non-cancer cells, thereby diverting the targeting molecules to healthy cells. By generating artificial cell surface receptors specific to diseased cells, aptamer-drug conjugates can identify these artificial receptors, improve therapeutic efficacy, and decrease the minimum effective dosage. In this study, we use high K+ and high H2O2 of the tumor microenvironment (TME) to produce polydopamine only on living cancer cell membrane. Owing to the significant reactivity of polydopamine with amino groups, e.g., the amino group of proteins, polydopamine can deposit on tumor cells and act as “artificial receptors” for targeted delivery of anticancer drugs with amino groups, in other words, amino-containing drugs and protein drugs. Polydopamine (PDA) generation catalyzed using G-quadruplex DNAzyme TME high K+ and H2O2 employed to produce PDA only on cancerous cells membrane PDA generated and deposited on cancerous cells and acted as artificial receptors PDA artificial receptors facilitated targeted delivery of drugs with amino groups
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Affiliation(s)
- Hoda Safari Yazd
- Department of Chemistry, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611-7200, USA
| | - Yu Yang
- Molecular Science and Biomedicine Laboratory (MBL), State Key Laboratory for Chemo/BioSensing and Chemometrics, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, College of Life Sciences, and Aptamer Engineering Center of Hunan Province, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, China.,Institute of Molecular Medicine (IMM), Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, and College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Long Li
- Department of Chemistry, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611-7200, USA
| | - Lu Yang
- Department of Chemistry, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611-7200, USA
| | - Xiaowei Li
- Department of Chemistry, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611-7200, USA
| | - Xiaoshu Pan
- Department of Chemistry, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611-7200, USA
| | - Zhuo Chen
- Molecular Science and Biomedicine Laboratory (MBL), State Key Laboratory for Chemo/BioSensing and Chemometrics, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, College of Life Sciences, and Aptamer Engineering Center of Hunan Province, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, China
| | - Jianhui Jiang
- Molecular Science and Biomedicine Laboratory (MBL), State Key Laboratory for Chemo/BioSensing and Chemometrics, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, College of Life Sciences, and Aptamer Engineering Center of Hunan Province, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, China
| | - Cheng Cui
- Molecular Science and Biomedicine Laboratory (MBL), State Key Laboratory for Chemo/BioSensing and Chemometrics, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, College of Life Sciences, and Aptamer Engineering Center of Hunan Province, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, China
| | - Weihong Tan
- Molecular Science and Biomedicine Laboratory (MBL), State Key Laboratory for Chemo/BioSensing and Chemometrics, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, College of Life Sciences, and Aptamer Engineering Center of Hunan Province, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, China.,Institute of Molecular Medicine (IMM), Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, and College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
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33
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Gonzales DT, Zechner C, Tang TYD. Building synthetic multicellular systems using bottom–up approaches. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.coisb.2020.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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34
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Alijani H, Noori A, Faridi N, Bathaie S, Mousavi MF. Aptamer-functionalized Fe3O4@MOF nanocarrier for targeted drug delivery and fluorescence imaging of the triple-negative MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells. J SOLID STATE CHEM 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jssc.2020.121680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
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35
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Engineering of stimuli-responsive lipid-bilayer membranes using supramolecular systems. Nat Rev Chem 2020; 5:46-61. [PMID: 37118103 DOI: 10.1038/s41570-020-00233-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The membrane proteins found in nature control many important cellular functions, including signal transduction and transmembrane ion transport, and these, in turn, are regulated by external stimuli, such as small molecules, membrane potential and light. Membrane proteins also find technological applications in fields ranging from optogenetics to synthetic biology. Synthetic supramolecular analogues have emerged as a complementary method to engineer functional membranes. This Review describes stimuli-responsive supramolecular systems developed for the control of ion transport, signal transduction and catalysis in lipid-bilayer-membrane systems. Recent advances towards achieving spatio-temporal control over activity in artificial and living cells are highlighted. Current challenges, the scope, limitations and future potential to exploit supramolecular systems for engineering stimuli-responsive lipid-bilayer membranes are discussed.
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36
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Samanta A, Sabatino V, Ward TR, Walther A. Functional and morphological adaptation in DNA protocells via signal processing prompted by artificial metalloenzymes. NATURE NANOTECHNOLOGY 2020; 15:914-921. [PMID: 32895521 PMCID: PMC7610402 DOI: 10.1038/s41565-020-0761-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2020] [Accepted: 08/03/2020] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
For life to emerge, the confinement of catalytic reactions within protocellular environments has been proposed to be a decisive aspect to regulate chemical activity in space1. Today, cells and organisms adapt to signals2-6 by processing them through reaction networks that ultimately provide downstream functional responses and structural morphogenesis7,8. Re-enacting such signal processing in de novo-designed protocells is a profound challenge, but of high importance for understanding the design of adaptive systems with life-like traits. We report on engineered all-DNA protocells9 harbouring an artificial metalloenzyme10 whose olefin metathesis activity leads to downstream morphogenetic protocellular responses with varying levels of complexity. The artificial metalloenzyme catalyses the uncaging of a pro-fluorescent signal molecule that generates a self-reporting fluorescent metabolite designed to weaken DNA duplex interactions. This leads to pronounced growth, intraparticular functional adaptation in the presence of a fluorescent DNA mechanosensor11 or interparticle protocell fusion. Such processes mimic chemically transduced processes found in cell adaptation and cell-to-cell adhesion. Our concept showcases new opportunities to study life-like behaviour via abiotic bioorthogonal chemical and mechanical transformations in synthetic protocells. Furthermore, it reveals a strategy for inducing complex behaviour in adaptive and communicating soft-matter microsystems, and it illustrates how dynamic properties can be upregulated and sustained in micro-compartmentalized media.
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Affiliation(s)
- Avik Samanta
- A3BMS Lab, Institute for Macromolecular Chemistry, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- DFG Cluster of Excellence "Living, Adaptive and Energy-Autonomous Materials Systems" (livMatS)@FIT, Freiburg, Germany
- Freiburg Materials Research Center, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- Freiburg Center for Interactive Materials and Bioinspired Technologies (FIT), University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Valerio Sabatino
- Department of Chemistry, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Thomas R Ward
- Department of Chemistry, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Andreas Walther
- A3BMS Lab, Institute for Macromolecular Chemistry, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.
- DFG Cluster of Excellence "Living, Adaptive and Energy-Autonomous Materials Systems" (livMatS)@FIT, Freiburg, Germany.
- Freiburg Materials Research Center, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.
- Freiburg Center for Interactive Materials and Bioinspired Technologies (FIT), University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.
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37
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Bravin C, Hunter CA. Template effects of vesicles in dynamic covalent chemistry. Chem Sci 2020; 11:9122-9125. [PMID: 34123161 PMCID: PMC8163447 DOI: 10.1039/d0sc03185b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2020] [Accepted: 07/22/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Vesicle lipid bilayers have been employed as templates to modulate the product distribution in a dynamic covalent library of Michael adducts formed by mixing a Michael acceptor with thiols. In methanol solution, all possible Michael adducts were obtained in similar amounts. Addition of vesicles to the dynamic covalent library led to the formation of a single major product. The equilibrium constants for formation of the Michael adducts are similar for all of the thiols used in this experiment, and the effect of the vesicles on the composition of the library is attributed to the differential partitioning of the library members between the lipid bilayer and the aqueous solution. The results provide a quantitative approach for exploiting dynamic covalent chemistry within lipid bilayers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Bravin
- Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge Lensfield Road Cambridge CB2 1EW UK
| | - Christopher A Hunter
- Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge Lensfield Road Cambridge CB2 1EW UK
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38
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'Prodrug-Like' Acetylmannosamine Modified Liposomes Loaded With Arsenic Trioxide for the Treatment of Orthotopic Glioma in Mice. J Pharm Sci 2020; 109:2861-2873. [PMID: 32534027 DOI: 10.1016/j.xphs.2020.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2020] [Revised: 05/06/2020] [Accepted: 06/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Glioma is one of the fatal intracranial cancers that is a huge challenge to decrease the death rate currently. The deep penetration and high accumulation of therapeutic inorganic ions into the tumor site are extremely impeded due to the existence of physiological barriers, which limits to widen the indication of some drugs such as arsenic trioxide. The previous data have confirmed that the mannose substrate (MAN) without acetyl groups facilitates vesicles to go into the brain. Given that deacetylation of Ac4MAN groups on the surface of liposomes under the enzyme incubation occurred, namely 'prodrug-like' features of vesicles, the liposomes could more easily penetrate the BBB, target the glioma site, release arsenic trioxide, and inhibit the growth of glioma cells in the brain. Besides, the possibility of Ac4MAN binding to Gluts could be reduced due to the steric hindrance of acetyl groups, decreasing the off-target effects of vesicles. Here, we developed 'prodrug-like' arsenic trioxide (As2O3, ATO)-loaded liposomes inserted with distearoyl phospho-ethanolamine-polyethylene glycol-1000-p-carboxylpheny-α-d-acetylmannosamine (DSPE-PEG-1000-Ac4MAN), which was named Ac4MAN-ATO-LIP. Cytotoxic experiments of liposomes indicated that the toxicity of Ac4MAN-ATO-LIP was lower than that of free ATO but stronger than that of ATO-LIP (without insertion of DSPE-PEG-1000-Ac4MAN). The uptake of vesicles by U87 glioma cells displayed that the cellular uptake of Ac4MAN-Rho-LIP (labeled by rhodamine) was remarkably improved, compared with Rho-LIP. The in vivo biodistribution results showed the superiority of Ac4MAN-Rho-LIP in enhanced intracranial accumulation. Furthermore, the treatment of orthotopic glioma in Balb/c nude mice with Ac4MAN-ATO-LIP elongated the survival time of the animals than that with physiological saline, free ATO, or ATO-LIP, respectively. All the results suggested that the Ac4MAN-ATO-LIP had stronger anti-glioma effects as well as lower toxicities, and may be a promising approach for the treatment of brain cancer.
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39
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Abstract
Communication between and inside cells as well as their response to external stimuli relies on elaborated systems of signal transduction. They all require a directional transmission across membranes, often realized by primary messenger docking onto external receptor units and subsequent internalization of the signal in form of a released second messenger. This in turn starts a cascade of events which ultimately control all functions of the living cell. Although signal transduction is a fundamental biological process realized by supramolecular recognition and multiplication events with small molecules, chemists have just begun to invent artificial models which allow to study the underlying rules, and one day perhaps to rescue damaged transduction systems in nature. This review summarizes the exciting pioneering efforts of chemists to create simple models for the basic principles of signal transduction across a membrane. It starts with first attempts to establish molecular recognition events on liposomes with embedded receptor amphiphiles and moves on to simple transmembrane signaling across lipid bilayers. More elaborated systems step by step incorporate more elements of cell signaling, such as primary and secondary messenger or a useful cellular response such as cargo release.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Bekus
- University of Duisburg-Essen Faculty of Chemistry Universitätsstr. 7 45117 Essen Germany
| | - Thomas Schrader
- University of Duisburg-Essen Faculty of Chemistry Universitätsstr. 7 45117 Essen Germany
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40
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Wang Y, Lei B, Sun M, Han X, Xu S, Liu H. Accurate Targeting and Controllable Release of Hybrid Liposome Containing a Stretchable Copolymer. MACROMOL CHEM PHYS 2020. [DOI: 10.1002/macp.201900536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Yizhou Wang
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Hierarchical Nanomaterials and School of Chemistry and Molecular EngineeringEast China University of Science and Technology (ECUST) Shanghai 200237 China
| | - Bin Lei
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Hierarchical Nanomaterials and School of Chemistry and Molecular EngineeringEast China University of Science and Technology (ECUST) Shanghai 200237 China
| | - Minjia Sun
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Hierarchical Nanomaterials and School of Chemistry and Molecular EngineeringEast China University of Science and Technology (ECUST) Shanghai 200237 China
| | - Xia Han
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Hierarchical Nanomaterials and School of Chemistry and Molecular EngineeringEast China University of Science and Technology (ECUST) Shanghai 200237 China
| | - Shouhong Xu
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Hierarchical Nanomaterials and School of Chemistry and Molecular EngineeringEast China University of Science and Technology (ECUST) Shanghai 200237 China
| | - Honglai Liu
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Hierarchical Nanomaterials and School of Chemistry and Molecular EngineeringEast China University of Science and Technology (ECUST) Shanghai 200237 China
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41
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Abstract
The combination of supramolecular functional systems with biomolecular chemistry has been a fruitful exercise for decades, leading to a greater understanding of biomolecules and to a great variety of applications, for example, in drug delivery and sensing. Within these developments, the phospholipid bilayer membrane, surrounding live cells, with all its functions has also intrigued supramolecular chemists. Herein, recent efforts from the supramolecular chemistry community to mimic natural functions of lipid membranes, such as sensing, molecular recognition, membrane fusion, signal transduction, and gated transport, are reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Barba‐Bon
- Department of Life Sciences and ChemistryJacobs University BremenCampus Ring 128759BremenGermany
| | - Mohamed Nilam
- Department of Life Sciences and ChemistryJacobs University BremenCampus Ring 128759BremenGermany
| | - Andreas Hennig
- Department of Life Sciences and ChemistryJacobs University BremenCampus Ring 128759BremenGermany
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42
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Hindley JW, Law RV, Ces O. Membrane functionalization in artificial cell engineering. SN APPLIED SCIENCES 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s42452-020-2357-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
AbstractBottom-up synthetic biology aims to construct mimics of cellular structure and behaviour known as artificial cells from a small number of molecular components. The development of this nascent field has coupled new insights in molecular biology with large translational potential for application in fields such as drug delivery and biosensing. Multiple approaches have been applied to create cell mimics, with many efforts focusing on phospholipid-based systems. This mini-review focuses on different approaches to incorporating molecular motifs as tools for lipid membrane functionalization in artificial cell construction. Such motifs range from synthetic chemical functional groups to components from extant biology that can be arranged in a ‘plug-and-play’ approach which is hard to replicate in living systems. Rationally designed artificial cells possess the promise of complex biomimetic behaviour from minimal, highly engineered chemical networks.
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43
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Malla JA, Umesh RM, Vijay A, Mukherjee A, Lahiri M, Talukdar P. Apoptosis-inducing activity of a fluorescent barrel-rosette M +/Cl - channel. Chem Sci 2020; 11:2420-2428. [PMID: 34084406 PMCID: PMC8157539 DOI: 10.1039/c9sc06520b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2019] [Accepted: 01/16/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Synthetic transmembrane ion transport systems are emerging as new tools for anticancer therapy. Here, a series of 2-hydroxy-N 1,N 3-diarylisophthalamide-based fluorescent ion channel-forming compounds are reported. Ion transport studies across large unilamellar vesicles confirmed that the compound with two 3,5-bis(trifluoromethyl)phenyl arms is the most efficient transporter among the series and it facilitates M+/Cl- symport. The compound formed supramolecular ion channels with a single-channel conductance of 100 ± 2 pS, a diameter of 5.06 ± 0.16 Å and a permeability ratio, P Cl- /P K+ , of 8.29 ± 1. The molecular dynamics simulations of the proposed M2.11 channel (i.e. 11 coaxial layers of a dimeric rosette) with K+ and Cl- in the preequilibrated POPC lipid bilayer with water molecules illustrated various aspects of channel formation and ion permeation. Cell viability assay with the designed compounds indicated that cell death is being induced by the individual compounds which follow the order of their ion transport activity and chloride and cations play roles in cell death. The inherent fluorescence of the most active transporter was helpful to monitor its permeation in cells by confocal microscopy. The apoptosis-inducing activity upon perturbation of intracellular ionic homeostasis was established by monitoring mitochondrial membrane depolarization, generation of reactive oxygen species, cytochrome c release, activation of the caspase 9 pathway, and finally the uptake of the propidium iodide dye in the treated MCF7 cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javid Ahmad Malla
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Pune Dr Homi Bhabha Road, Pashan Pune 411008 Maharashtra India
| | - Rintu M Umesh
- Department of Biology, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Pune Dr Homi Bhabha Road, Pashan Pune 411008 Maharashtra India
| | - Amal Vijay
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Pune Dr Homi Bhabha Road, Pashan Pune 411008 Maharashtra India
| | - Arnab Mukherjee
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Pune Dr Homi Bhabha Road, Pashan Pune 411008 Maharashtra India
| | - Mayurika Lahiri
- Department of Biology, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Pune Dr Homi Bhabha Road, Pashan Pune 411008 Maharashtra India
| | - Pinaki Talukdar
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Pune Dr Homi Bhabha Road, Pashan Pune 411008 Maharashtra India
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44
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Ding Y, Williams NH, Hunter CA. A Synthetic Vesicle-to-Vesicle Communication System. J Am Chem Soc 2019; 141:17847-17853. [PMID: 31642667 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.9b09102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
A molecular signal displayed on the external surface of one population of vesicles was used to trigger a catalytic process on the inside of a second population of vesicles. The key recognition event is the transfer of a protein (NeutrAvidin) bound to vesicles displaying desthiobiotin to vesicles displaying biotin. The desthiobiotin-protein complex was used to anchor a synthetic transducer in the outer leaflet of the vesicles, and when the protein was displaced, the transducer translocated across the bilayer to expose a catalytic headgroup to the internal vesicle solution. As a result, an ester substrate encapsulated on the inside of this second population of vesicles was hydrolyzed to give a fluorescence output signal. The protein has four binding sites, which leads to multivalent interactions with membrane-anchored ligands and very high binding affinities. Thus, biotin, which has a dissociation constant 3 orders of magnitude higher than desthiobiotin, did not displace the protein from the membrane-anchored transducer, and membrane-anchored biotin displayed on the surface of a second population of vesicles was required to generate an effective input signal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yudi Ding
- Department of Chemistry , University of Cambridge , Lensfield Road , Cambridge CB2 1EW , United Kingdom
| | - Nicholas H Williams
- Department of Chemistry , University of Sheffield , Sheffield S3 7HF , United Kingdom
| | - Christopher A Hunter
- Department of Chemistry , University of Cambridge , Lensfield Road , Cambridge CB2 1EW , United Kingdom
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45
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Grayson KJ, Anderson JLR. Designed for life: biocompatible de novo designed proteins and components. J R Soc Interface 2019; 15:rsif.2018.0472. [PMID: 30158186 PMCID: PMC6127164 DOI: 10.1098/rsif.2018.0472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2018] [Accepted: 08/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
A principal goal of synthetic biology is the de novo design or redesign of biomolecular components. In addition to revealing fundamentally important information regarding natural biomolecular engineering and biochemistry, functional building blocks will ultimately be provided for applications including the manufacture of valuable products and therapeutics. To fully realize this ambitious goal, the designed components must be biocompatible, working in concert with natural biochemical processes and pathways, while not adversely affecting cellular function. For example, de novo protein design has provided us with a wide repertoire of structures and functions, including those that can be assembled and function in vivo. Here we discuss such biocompatible designs, as well as others that have the potential to become biocompatible, including non-protein molecules, and routes to achieving full biological integration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie J Grayson
- School of Biochemistry, University of Bristol, Biomedical Sciences Building, Bristol BS8 1TD, UK
| | - J L Ross Anderson
- School of Biochemistry, University of Bristol, Biomedical Sciences Building, Bristol BS8 1TD, UK .,BrisSynBio Synthetic Biology Research Centre, University of Bristol, Life Sciences Building, Tyndall Avenue, Bristol BS8 1TQ, UK
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46
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Na K, Liu K, Yu J, Wang X, Li M, Tian C, He H, He Y, Wang Y. A solvent-assisted active loading technology to prepare gambogic acid and all-trans retinoic acid co-encapsulated liposomes for synergistic anticancer therapy. Drug Deliv Transl Res 2019; 10:146-158. [DOI: 10.1007/s13346-019-00669-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
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47
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Vanuytsel S, Carniello J, Wallace MI. Artificial Signal Transduction across Membranes. Chembiochem 2019; 20:2569-2580. [DOI: 10.1002/cbic.201900254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2019] [Revised: 07/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Steven Vanuytsel
- Department of ChemistryKing's College London Britannia House 7 Trinity Street London SE1 1DB UK
- London Centre for Nanotechnology Strand London WC2R 2LS UK
| | - Joanne Carniello
- Department of ChemistryKing's College London Britannia House 7 Trinity Street London SE1 1DB UK
- London Centre for Nanotechnology Strand London WC2R 2LS UK
| | - Mark Ian Wallace
- Department of ChemistryKing's College London Britannia House 7 Trinity Street London SE1 1DB UK
- London Centre for Nanotechnology Strand London WC2R 2LS UK
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48
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Osypenko A, Dhers S, Lehn JM. Pattern Generation and Information Transfer through a Liquid/Liquid Interface in 3D Constitutional Dynamic Networks of Imine Ligands in Response to Metal Cation Effectors. J Am Chem Soc 2019; 141:12724-12737. [DOI: 10.1021/jacs.9b05438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Artem Osypenko
- Laboratoire de Chimie Supramoléculaire, Institut de Science et d’Ingénierie Supramoléculaires (ISIS), Université de Strasbourg, 8 allée Gaspard Monge, 67000 Strasbourg, France
| | - Sébastien Dhers
- Laboratoire de Chimie Supramoléculaire, Institut de Science et d’Ingénierie Supramoléculaires (ISIS), Université de Strasbourg, 8 allée Gaspard Monge, 67000 Strasbourg, France
| | - Jean-Marie Lehn
- Laboratoire de Chimie Supramoléculaire, Institut de Science et d’Ingénierie Supramoléculaires (ISIS), Université de Strasbourg, 8 allée Gaspard Monge, 67000 Strasbourg, France
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49
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Zeng H, Xie M, Huang Y, Zhao Y, Xie X, Bai J, Wan M, Krishna R, Lu W, Li D. Induced Fit of C
2
H
2
in a Flexible MOF Through Cooperative Action of Open Metal Sites. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2019; 58:8515-8519. [DOI: 10.1002/anie.201904160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 143] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Heng Zeng
- College of Chemistry and Materials ScienceJinan University Guangzhou 510632 P. R. China
| | - Mo Xie
- College of Chemistry and Materials ScienceJinan University Guangzhou 510632 P. R. China
| | - Yong‐Liang Huang
- College of Chemistry and Materials ScienceJinan University Guangzhou 510632 P. R. China
| | - Yifang Zhao
- College of Chemistry and Materials ScienceJinan University Guangzhou 510632 P. R. China
| | - Xiao‐Jing Xie
- College of Chemistry and Materials ScienceJinan University Guangzhou 510632 P. R. China
| | - Jian‐Ping Bai
- College of Chemistry and Materials ScienceJinan University Guangzhou 510632 P. R. China
| | - Meng‐Yan Wan
- College of Chemistry and Materials ScienceJinan University Guangzhou 510632 P. R. China
| | - Rajamani Krishna
- Van't Hoff Institute for Molecular SciencesUniversity of Amsterdam Science Park 904 1098 XH Amsterdam The Netherlands
| | - Weigang Lu
- College of Chemistry and Materials ScienceJinan University Guangzhou 510632 P. R. China
| | - Dan Li
- College of Chemistry and Materials ScienceJinan University Guangzhou 510632 P. R. China
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50
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Zeng H, Xie M, Huang Y, Zhao Y, Xie X, Bai J, Wan M, Krishna R, Lu W, Li D. Induced Fit of C
2
H
2
in a Flexible MOF Through Cooperative Action of Open Metal Sites. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2019. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.201904160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Heng Zeng
- College of Chemistry and Materials ScienceJinan University Guangzhou 510632 P. R. China
| | - Mo Xie
- College of Chemistry and Materials ScienceJinan University Guangzhou 510632 P. R. China
| | - Yong‐Liang Huang
- College of Chemistry and Materials ScienceJinan University Guangzhou 510632 P. R. China
| | - Yifang Zhao
- College of Chemistry and Materials ScienceJinan University Guangzhou 510632 P. R. China
| | - Xiao‐Jing Xie
- College of Chemistry and Materials ScienceJinan University Guangzhou 510632 P. R. China
| | - Jian‐Ping Bai
- College of Chemistry and Materials ScienceJinan University Guangzhou 510632 P. R. China
| | - Meng‐Yan Wan
- College of Chemistry and Materials ScienceJinan University Guangzhou 510632 P. R. China
| | - Rajamani Krishna
- Van't Hoff Institute for Molecular SciencesUniversity of Amsterdam Science Park 904 1098 XH Amsterdam The Netherlands
| | - Weigang Lu
- College of Chemistry and Materials ScienceJinan University Guangzhou 510632 P. R. China
| | - Dan Li
- College of Chemistry and Materials ScienceJinan University Guangzhou 510632 P. R. China
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