Figure 1: 3D Model of Artificial Cells (Source)
Recently, scientists have been able to make advancements in creating cells that can mimic living cells and their ability to imitate the vital functions of biological cells. Researchers at New York University, the University of Chicago, and Arizona State University state that artificial cells can perform active transport, a complex cellular process researchers have tried to replicate for decades. These artificial cells, also known as liposomes, are designed to mimic natural cells by creating a spherical membrane with a tiny hole, a nano-channel, that replicates the function of a cell’s protein channel. To imitate the process of active transport, the researchers then added a chemically reactive component inside the nano-channel that reacts whenever it is exposed to light.
The artificial cells are also able to sense and deliver calcium ions across their surface and also show responses by fluorescing. The team created molecules that are soluble in the lipid layer of the artificial cell, but insoluble in the water inside and outside the cell. By removing electrons from these specific molecules, it would bind to the calcium ions take them across the membrane, and release them at the inner surface of the cell. This results in the calcium ion concentration increasing.
Although cell diffusion of just one type of ion may seem like a small advancement, the implications behind it are very significant. Calcium ions and their diffusion into and out of the cell are essential for crucial functions such as heart contractions, vision, neuro-information transmission, and cell division. All muscle fibers use calcium ions to serve as regulatory and signaling molecules for contraction. If there are patients who have health issues with any of these necessities, the artificial cells could support and supplement natural cells with this function.
There are other applications that can be made from this as well. The researchers state that there can be multiple uses, from drug delivery to environmental science where they can clean microscopic pollutants. The artificial cells could also potentially be used as temporary replacements for living cells so that they can be used to support the healing process of injuries.
Another factor of these artificial cells is the fact that it is much more straightforward as it does not have any organelles. This would mean that there wouldn’t be any byproducts that are toxic to the cell, creating easy maintenance and preventing any harm to the rest of the body.
Of course, there are still limitations to these artificial cells. Unlike natural cells, they aren’t complex enough to self-sustain, conduct cell signaling, or work towards specific functions like tissues. However, cell diffusion is still an essential aspect of cells, and its advancement promises future advancements for fully functioning artificial cells.
Works Cited
Communications, N. W. (2021, September 8). Scientists create artificial cells that mimic living cells’ ability to capture, process, and expel material. NYU. https://www.nyu.edu/about/news-publications/news/2021/september/artificial-cells.html
Scientists create artificial cells capable of sensing and ... - sci.news. (n.d.). https://www.sci.news/othersciences/chemistry/artificial-cells-07456.html
Asu. (n.d.). Artificial cell gets light-powered nanopump for calcium ions. EurekAlert! https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/791858
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