Nanopore-Spanning Lipid Bilayers for Controlled Chemical Release

A hybrid organic/inorganic chemical delivery system with lipid bilayer seals is demonstrated. Semiconductor fabrication methods are used to produce chemical reservoirs with sub-micrometer pore openings. These openings are selectively sealed by depositing of lipid bilayers. The seals are leak-free and stable for weeks. When desired, the reservoirs can be opened with a standard microscope lamp.