Light‐Activated Membrane Transport in Polymeric Cell‐Mimics

Abstract

Giant polymersomes are versatile and stable biomimetic compartments that are ideal for building cell‐like systems. However, the transport of hydrophilic molecules across the membrane, which controls the function of cell‐like systems, is limited by the low permeability of polymeric bilayers. Therefore, mechanisms to control the permeability of polymersomes are necessary to create functional cell‐like systems. Here, we describe the design of giant polymersomes equipped with spiropyran‐based permeability modulators. Photo‐isomerization of the modulators leads to perturbation of the polymer membrane, resulting in increased permeability. The photoactivated polymersomes were used to construct two cell‐like systems controlled by light‐activated transport of hydrophilic molecules. First, we designed an enzymatic micro‐reactor activated by light irradiation. Second, we constructed a hybrid coacervate‐in‐polymersome system that mimics the adaptive formation of biological condensates in cells.