ORIGINAL: Science Direct
Universally Available
Edited by Miguel De la Rosa, Felix Wieland and Wilhelm Just
Daniel A. Hammera, b,
, 
,
Neha P. Kamata
a Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
b Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.febslet.2012.07.044, How to Cite or Link Using DOI
Universally Available
Edited by Miguel De la Rosa, Felix Wieland and Wilhelm Just
Daniel A. Hammera, b,
, , Neha P. Kamata
a Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
b Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.febslet.2012.07.044, How to Cite or Link Using DOI
PDF (174 K)Abstract
We are on the verge of producing “synthetic cells,” or protocells, in which some, many or all of the tasks of a real biological cell are harnessed into a synthetic platform. Such advances are made possible through genetic engineering, microfabrication technologies, and the development of cellular membranes from new surfactants that extend beyond phospholipids in stability and chemical control, and can be used to introduce designer functionality into membranes and cells. We review some of the recent advances in the development of synthetic cells and suggest future exciting directions.
Highlights
► We review recent advances in the development of artificial cells.
► Synthetic gene circuits will enable signaling and control systems within artificial membranes.
► We discuss the constructing of vesicle membranes using recombinant biotechnology.
► We highlight studies in which catalysis, compartmentalization, and adhesion is conducted.
► We discuss recent work conducted to create regenerating membranes.
Keywords
Protocell;
Vesicle;
Bilayer membrane
