Light-Activated Membrane Transport in Polymeric Cell-Mimics

Giant polymersomes are versatile and stable biomimetic compartments that are ideal for building cell-like systems. However, the transport of hydrophilic molecules across the membrane, which controls the function of cell-like systems, is limited by the low permeability of polymeric bilayers. Therefore, mechanisms to control the permeability of polymersomes are necessary to create functional cell-like systems. Here, we describe the design of giant polymersomes equipped with spiropyran-based permeability modulators. Photo-isomerization of the modulators leads to perturbation of the polymer membrane, resulting in increased permeability. The photoactivated polymersomes were used to construct two cell-like systems controlled by light-activated transport of hydrophilic molecules. First, we designed an enzymatic micro-reactor activated by light irradiation. Second, we constructed a hybrid coacervate-in-polymersome system that mimics the adaptive formation of biological condensates in cells.

Automated summary

In this study, giant polymersomes equipped with spiropyran-based permeability modulators were designed. Photo-isomerization of the modulators increased the permeability of the polymer membrane. These photoactivated polymersomes were used to construct two cell-like systems controlled by light-activated transport of hydrophilic molecules.