Giant unilamellar vesicles (GUVs) serve as model systems for studying membrane behavior, offering insights into processes such as membrane deformation, cargo transport, and vesicle fusion. However, achieving precise control over these processes in synthetic systems remains challenging.

The ability to programmatically remodel lipid membranes and GUVs in a controlled and reversible manner is a significant hurdle in the field. Traditional approaches often lack the capacity to induce complex, dynamic changes in membrane structure that are critical for replicating biological functions such as vesicle fusion, fission, and cargo transport.

A recent study introduces innovative 3D reconfigurable DNA origami pincers (DOPs) that can dynamically interact with and remodel lipid membranes in GUVs, which were generated using the Vesicle Prep Pro system. These DOPs are designed to control membrane morphology by adjusting their pinching angle, enabling the precise modulation of GUV shape and membrane dynamics.

The DNA origami structures can oligomerize on the GUV membrane, forming complex cage-like assemblies that can capture, compartmentalize, and even detach lipid fragments. This oligomerization process is accompanied by membrane disruptions, enabling the passage of cargo across the membrane.

The DOPs can be programmably reconfigured to induce specific deformations in the GUV membranes. By adjusting the pinching angle, the DOPs can transition GUVs from near-spherical to significantly deformed states, demonstrating a high level of control over membrane morphology.

Upon oligomerization, the DOPs form structured cages on the GUV membrane, which not only remodel the membrane but also induce transient pores. These pores enable the controlled passage of molecules across the membrane.

The study showcases the ability to reversibly remodel the GUV membranes by sequentially adjusting the DOP pinching angles. This highlights the potential for creating synthetic systems where membrane dynamics can be precisely programmed and controlled in real time.

In conclusion, this study represents a significant advance in the field of lipid membrane and GUV research, demonstrating how DNA origami structures can be used to dynamically and reversibly manipulate membrane morphology and function.

These findings are particularly relevant for the development of synthetic cells and advanced biomaterials, where the precise control of membrane dynamics is essential. The ability to engineer DNA-based nanostructures that can induce and control complex membrane behaviors opens new possibilities for studying membrane mechanics, drug delivery, and the creation of programmable vesicle-based systems.

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Find the full article here: 3D DNA origami pincers that multitask on giant unilamellar vesicles

Learn more about automated preparation of solvent-free GUVs: https://www.nanion.de/products/vesicle-prep-pro/