Controlled adhesion, membrane pinning and vesicle transport by Janus particles

The interactions between biomembranes and particles are key to many applications, but the lack of controllable model systems to study them limits the progress in their research. Here, we describe how Janus polystyrene microparticles, half coated with iron, can be partially engulfed by artificial cells, namely giant vesicles, with the goals to control and investigate their adhesion and degree of encapsulation. The interaction between the Janus particles and these model cell membrane systems is mediated by electrostatic charge, offering a further mode of modulation in addition to the iron patches. The ferromagnetic particle coatings also enable manipulation and transport of the vesicles by magnetic fields.

Automated summary

The interaction between Janus particles and model cell membrane systems offers a controllable model system to study adhesion and encapsulation, mediated by electrostatic charge and iron patches. The ferromagnetic particle coatings enable manipulation and transport of vesicles by magnetic fields.