Biomimetic triblock copolymer membrane arrays: a stable template for functional membrane proteins

Langmuir. 2009 Sep 15;25(18):10447-50. doi: 10.1021/la902417m.

Abstract

It is demonstrated that biomimetic stable triblock copolymer membrane arrays can be prepared using a scaffold containing 64 apertures of 300 microm diameter each. The membranes were made from a stock solution of block copolymers with decane as a solvent using a new deposition method. By using decane, we avoid low molecular weight solvents such as chloroform and toluene, which are strong protein denaturants. The membranes show a low ionic conductance and a long lifetime at room temperature. Contrast phase microscopy shows the presence of a polymer region delimited by a Plateau-Gibbs border similar to what is observed in black lipid membranes. The ion-channel gramicidin A was successfully incorporated into the membrane in a functional form.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Alkanes
  • Biomimetic Materials / chemistry*
  • Biomimetics
  • Electric Capacitance
  • Electric Conductivity
  • Gramicidin / metabolism
  • Ion Channels / metabolism
  • Membrane Proteins / metabolism*
  • Membranes, Artificial*
  • Polymers / chemistry*
  • Protein Array Analysis / methods
  • Solvents
  • Temperature

Substances

  • Alkanes
  • Ion Channels
  • Membrane Proteins
  • Membranes, Artificial
  • Polymers
  • Solvents
  • Gramicidin
  • decane