Synthetic DNA nanopores for direct molecular transmission between lipid vesicles.

Lipid vesicles hold potential as artificial cells in bottom-up synthetic biology, and as tools in drug delivery and biosensing. Transmitting molecular signals is a key function for vesicle-based systems. One strategy to achieve this function is by releasing molecular signals from vesicles through nanopores.

Functional Evaluation of 3D Liver Models Labeled with Polysaccharide Functionalized Magnetic Nanoparticles.

Establishing a rapid evaluation system for drug screening is essential for the development of new drugs. To reproduce tissues/organs with functions closer to living organisms, three-dimensional (3D) culture evaluation using microfabrication technology has been reported in recent years. Culture on patterned substrates with controlled hydrophilic and hydrophobic regions (Cell-able) can create 3D liver models (miniature livers) with liver-specific Disse luminal structures and functions.

Preparation of Size-controlled Giant Vesicles Under Physiological Conditions.

Giant vesicles (GVs) are model cell membranes that function as tools for the study of cell membrane properties. Recently, researchers have been calling for GVs of specific sizes for use in studies with precise needs. In this paper, we report a method of forming GVs of specific sizes by using an agarose-swelling approach.