2D–3D-Convertible, pH-Responsive Lipid Nanosheets

Abstract

2D nanosheets self-assembled with amphiphilic molecules are promising tools for biomedical applications; yet, there are challenges to form and stabilize these nanosheets under complex physiological conditions. Here, the development of lipid nanosheets with high structural stability that can be reversibly converted to cell-sized vesicles by changes in pH within the physiological range robustly, are described. The system is controlled by the membrane disruptive peptide E5 and a cationic copolymer anchored on lipid membranes. It is envisioned that nanosheets formed using the dual anchoring peptide/cationic copolymer system can be employed in dynamic lipidic nanodevices, such as the vesosomes described here, drug delivery systems, and artificial cells.