Designed Amphiphiles for Cell Membrane Mimetic Nanoarchitecture

Abstract

Biomembrane is a functional interface that provides not only a cross-wall to compartmentalise the cytoplasmic components from the external environment but also sophisticated functions such as material transport, signal transduction and energy production. Complex functions of biomembranes are established by the interplay of a lipid bilayer and membrane proteins. To date, a significant number of synthetic amphiphilic molecules have been designed inspired by membrane-forming molecules that can simulate the structures and functions of biomembranes based on supramolecular chemistry in an aqueous environment. This book chapter provides an overview of the guidelines for the molecular design of amphiphiles that can mimic biomembranes, as well as their nanoarchitecture and achieve biomimetic functions.