Use liposome as a designable platform for molecular recognition ~ from "statistical separation" to "recognitive separation" ~

Abstract

A liposome membrane system attracts much interest for its use as a "designable" interface for the recognition of various biomolecules because it can provide a hydrophobic nano-environment in aqueous solution and can also induce a dynamic nature in response to the variation of its environment. The methods to characterize the membrane properties of liposome have been reviewed, focusing on the micro-phase separation of different lipids on the membrane and, also, nano-domain formation there. A possible design of the liposome membrane for the recognition of biomacromolecules was discussed based on the characterized properties, by employing the RNA molecule as a case study. Finally, a possible extension of the above-described strategy toward "recognitive separation" is discussed as a future possibility.