Biomolecular material systems with encapsulated interface bilayers

Abstract

ABSTRACTIn this paper we present a novel approach for interface bilayer formation in which the uptake of an aqueous lipid vesicle solution by two polymeric hydrogels contained in a substrate causes the gels to swell so as to come into contact within an internal oil-filled region of the device. An interface bilayer, similar to those formed using the droplet interface bilayer (DIB) method, forms upon contact in oil between the lipid-encased ends of the two gels. Experimental measurements provide initial evidence that gel swelling enables automatic bilayer formation within a few minutes after the addition of lipid solution. The approach presented herein works toward the development of a new portable, easy-to-use screening platform that features tailored interface bilayers for a wide variety of screening applications.