DNA Encapsulation in Giant Unilamellar Vesicles

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Giant unilamellar vesicles (GUVs) are spherical entities consisting of a  lipid bilayer and range from 1 to 100 microns in size. They are structurally similar to biological cells, which are also bound by a lipid bilayer and have a similar size. This makes GUVs suitable for use as very simple cellular models. Encapsulation of relevant biomolecules inside these vesicles has been explored in order to obtain and study artificial cells.

Here at the Membranes and Microforces group (MCUBE) at ICS, Strasbourg, I began studying the encapsulation of various types of DNA in these vesicles. Under Dr. Schmatko's guidance, we found  a cut-off length for the DNA strands that could be successfully encapsulated in our GUVs. Subsequently, we also hypothesised a mechanism for DNA encapsulation, believing it to be dependent on the dynamic between the diffusion of DNA through the gel and the rate of vesicle formation.

Image on the right shows a GUV filled with DNA, under a fluorescence microscope. Taken from my thesis.

Polymeric hollow fibre membranes have been widely used for filtration. Here at IIT Bombay, I aided Dr. Surendra Kumar Verma during his PhD, where he was exploring their potential as low-cost alternatives to commercial dialysers. These polymeric membranes were modified with certain additives to improve their biocompatibility, and their ability to filter animal blood was tested. The results were very promising, showing reduced platelet adhesion and superior filtration of urea, creatinine and phosphates when compared to commercial alternatives.

Image shows an HFM and its cross section. Taken from Teotia, Rohit & Verma, Surendra & Kalita, Dhrubajyoti & Singh, Atul & Dahe, Ganpat & Bellare, Jayesh. (2017). Porosity and compatibility of novel polysulfone-/vitamin E-TPGS-grafted composite membrane. Journal of Materials Science. 52. 10.1007/s10853-017-1351-8.