Biological self-assembly is very complex and results in highly functional materials. In effect, it takes a bottom-up approach using biomolecular building blocks of precisely defined shape, size, hydrophobicity, and spatial distribution of functionality. Inspired by, and drawing lessons from self-assembly processes of the natural occurring SNARE protein complex, which is involved in membrane fusion, we used a small heterodimeric coiled-coil motif to control the supramolecular assembly of block copolymers and lipids.We show that the fusion of large and giant unilamellar vesicles can be controlled by these amphiphilic peptides. This model system imparts all of the key characteristics to membrane fusion that are observed in SNARE mediated fusion. The mechanism of the fusion process will be discussed as well as the factors determining the rate of fusion by varying the molecular structure of our lipidated peptides.

Efficient membrane fusion using lipidated peptides: Factors determining the rate of fusion

243rd National Meeting (2012)

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