Phospholipid membranes are of immense fundamental and practical interest. In living organisms, diacylphospholipids are typically assembled through a series of steps, including acyl transfers catalyzed by membrane embedded acyl transferases. We have been developing chemoselective reactions that can mimic these processes, triggering the non-enzymatic synthesis of phospholipid membranes. These membranes mimic the structure and properites of native phospholipid membranes. Furthermore, these methods enable incorporation of proteins, either inside enclosed vesicles or in the bilayer itself. We have also recently collaborated with other groups to trigger membrane synthesis in response to external stimuli such as light. These synthetic membranes could form the supramolecular chassis of hybrid synthetic cells.

Triggering the de novo synthesis of phospholipid membranes

249th National Meeting (2015)

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