Tubulation of liposomes via the interaction of supramolecular nanofibers

Chem Commun (Camb). 2017 Sep 12;53(73):10140-10143. doi: 10.1039/c7cc05857h.

Abstract

We achieved tubulation of self-assembled lipid membranes, liposomes, via the interaction of supramolecular nanofibers, porphyrin J-aggregates. This structural change was reversible, and the deformation of the porphyrin J-aggregates caused reconstruction of the liposomes from the tubes. We discussed the tubulation mechanism and calculated the force provided by porphyrin J-aggregates for tubulation.