A Simple and Versatile Method for the Formation of Arrays of Giant Vesicles with Controlled Size and Composition

摘要

This paper demonstrates the application of hydrogel stamps for generation of arrays of controlled-sized giant liposomes with functional membrane proteins and explores the applicability of these vesicles for membrane studies. Giant uni-lamellar vesicles (GUVs) are widely applied as model systems for studying different aspects of cellular membranes as they closely mimic the size and curvature of these membranes. In addition, these cell-sized liposomes offer unique flexibility for visualization of membrane processes. They have, thus, been commonly employed for membrane biophysical studies, such as lipid phase separation, and functional studies of channel proteins. These liposomes have also found applications in other areas such as biomaterials and biotechnology where they were used to create nano-fluidic networks, micron-scale biore-actors, and synthetic cells. Recently, in light of emergence of high-throughput studies, arrays of liposomes have attracted an increasing attention. These arrays can be based on nano- to micron-sized liposomes and in combination with highly-sensitive fluorescence techniques, have enabled high-throughput studies of membrane curvature, fusion, transport, and single molecule reactions.