Multi-functional DNA nanostructures that puncture and remodel lipid membranes into hybrid materials.

ABSTRACT: Synthetically replicating key biological processes requires the ability to puncture lipid bilayer membranes and to remodel their shape. Recently developed artificial DNA nanopores are one possible synthetic route due to their ease of fabrication. However, an unresolved fundamental question is how DNA nanopores bind to and dynamically interact with lipid bilayers. Here we use single-molecule fluorescence microscopy to establish that DNA nanopores carrying cholesterol anchors insert via a two-step mechanism into membranes. Nanopores are furthermore shown to locally cluster and remodel membranes into nanoscale protrusions. Most strikingly, the DNA pores can function as cytoskeletal components by stabilizing autonomously formed lipid nanotubes. The combination of membrane puncturing and remode

SUBMITTER: Birkholz O 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5906680 | biostudies-literature | 2018 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature