An embryo of protocells: The capsule of graphene with selective ion channels

Sci Rep. 2015 May 19:5:10258. doi: 10.1038/srep10258.

Abstract

The synthesis of artificial cell is a route for searching the origin of protocell. Here, we create a novel cell model of graphene capsules with selective ion channels, indicating that graphene might be an embryo of protocell membrane. Firstly, we found that the highly oxidized graphene and phospholipid-graphene oxide composite would curl into capsules under a strongly acidic saturated solution of heavy metallic salt solution at low temperature. Secondly, L-amino acids exhibited higher reactivity than D-amino acids on graphene oxides to form peptides, and the formed peptides in the influence of graphene would be transformed into a secondary structure, promoting the formation of left-handed proteins. Lastly, monolayer nanoporous graphene, prepared by unfocused (84)Kr(25+), has a high selectivity for permeation of the monovalent metal ions ( Rb(+) > K(+) > Cs(+) > Na(+) > Li(+), based on permeation concentration), but does not allow Cl(-) go through. It is similar to K(+) channels, which would cause an influx of K(+) into capsule of graphene with the increase of pH in the primitive ocean, creating a suitable inner condition for the origin of life. Therefore, we built a model cell of graphene, which would provide a route for reproducing the origin of life.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Amino Acids / chemistry
  • Artificial Cells / chemistry*
  • Artificial Cells / cytology*
  • Cations, Monovalent
  • Graphite / chemistry*
  • Ion Channels / chemistry*
  • Metals, Heavy
  • Oxides

Substances

  • Amino Acids
  • Cations, Monovalent
  • Ion Channels
  • Metals, Heavy
  • Oxides
  • Graphite