PhD Defence Zhen Jiao | 2D Materials and Van der Waals HeterostructuresDue to the COVID-19 crisis the PhD defence of Zhen Jiao will take place (partly) online.Read more- MESA+ Colloquia: Polymer-based artificial cells and organellesCompartmentalization is generally regarded as one of the key prerequisites for life. In living cells, not only the cell itself is a compartment, with its properties controlled by the semipermeable cell membrane, but also the organelles play a crucial role in protecting and controlling biological processes. To better understand the role of compartmentalization, there is a clear need for model systems that can be adapted in a highly controlled fashion, and in which life-like properties can be installed. Polymer-based compartments are robust and chemically versatile, and as such are a useful platform for the development of life-like compartments. In this lecture, both artificial organelle and cell systems will be discussed. The artificial organelles are composed of biodegradable amphiphilic block copolymers that self-assemble into vesicular structures. These so-called polymersomes are loaded with enzymes and are semi-permeable for small-molecule substrates. Upon introduction in living cells, they affect metabolic pathways as artificial organelles. A different type of polymersome is created via a shape change process in which a bowl-shaped structure is obtained. Within the cavity of the bowl, enzymes are loaded which provide the nanostructure with motility upon conversion of chemical energy into kinetic energy.Read more
