In Vivo Remote Control of Reactions in Caenorhabditis elegans by Using Supramolecular Nanohybrids of Carbon Nanotubes and Liposomes

A supramolecular nanohybrid based on carbon nanotubes and liposomes that is highly biocompatible and capable of permeation through cells is described. The nanohybrid can be loaded with a variety of functional molecules and is structurally controlled by near-infrared laser irradiation for the release of molecules from the nanohybrids in a targeted manner via microscopy. We implemented the controlled release of molecules from the nanohybrids and demonstrated remote regulation of the photoinduced nanohybrid functions. As a proof of principle, nanohybrids loaded with amiloride were successfully used in the spatiotemporally targeted blocking of amiloride-sensitive mechanosensory neurons in living Caenorhabditis elegans. Our prototype could inspire new designs for biomimetic parasitism and symbiosis, and biologically active nanorobots for the higher-level manipulation of organisms.