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bioRxiv · 10.1101/2022.05.02.490361

Actuating tension-loaded DNA clamps drives membrane tubulation

Liu, L.·Xiong, Q.·Xie, C.·Pincet, F.·Lin, C.
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Abstract

Membrane dynamics in living organisms can arise from proteins adhering to, assembling on, and exerting force on cell membranes. Programmable synthetic materials, such as self-assembled DNA nanostructures, offer the capability to drive membrane remodeling events in a way that resembles protein-mediated dynamics, but with user-defined outcomes. An example showcasing this capability is the tubular deformation of liposomes by DNA nanostructures with purposely designed shapes, surface modifications, and self-assembling properties. However, stimulus-responsive membrane tubulation mediated by DNA structure reconfiguration remains challenging. Here we present the triggered formation of membrane tubes in response to specific DNA signals that actuate membrane-bound DNA clamps from an open state to various predefined closed states, releasing pre-stored energy to activate membrane deformation. Using giant unilamellar vesicles (GUVs) as a model system, we show that the timing and efficiency of tubulation, as well as the width of membrane tubes, are modulated by the conformational change of DNA clamps, marking a solid step toward spatiotemporal control of membrane dynamics in an artificial system.

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Liu, L., Xiong, Q., Xie, C., Pincet, F., Lin, C.. 2022-05-03. Actuating tension-loaded DNA clamps drives membrane tubulation. https://doi.org/10.1101/2022.05.02.490361

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