Channel width modulates the permeability of DNA origami-based nuclear pore mimics.

Nucleoporins (nups) in the nuclear pore complex (NPC) form a selective barrier that suppresses the diffusion of most macromolecules while enabling rapid transport of nuclear transport receptor (NTR)-bound cargos. Recent studies have shown that the NPC may dilate and constrict, but how altering the NPC diameter affects its selective barrier properties remains unclear. Here, we build DNA nanopores with programmable diameters and nup arrangements to model the constricted and dilated NPCs.

Channel width modulates the permeability of DNA origami based nuclear pore mimics.

Nucleoporins (nups) in the central channel of nuclear pore complexes (NPCs) form a selective barrier that suppresses the diffusion of most macromolecules while enabling rapid transport of nuclear transport receptors (NTRs) with bound cargos. The complex molecular interactions between nups and NTRs have been thought to underlie the gatekeeping function of the NPC. Recent studies have shown considerable variation in NPC diameter but how altering NPC diameter might impact the selective barrier properties remains unclear.