Assan D., Gao X., Lai J.C.K., Leung S.W.
Idaho State U, US
Keywords: DNA, electrolytes, enzymes, proteins, surfactant, transport
Surfactants play a key role on bodily functions at molecular level, such as cell signaling and signal transmission. Their importance in cell survival is well recognized, but the surfactant effect on intermolecular/interfacial mass transport is not well understood and the available information of the subject is very limited quantitatively. In this report, we systemically studied the effect of surfactants on intercellular transport of DNA, proteins, and some key electrolytes with an artificial cellular system constructed with a semipermeable membrane. The permeabilities of these biomolecules and electrolytes across the semipermeable membranes in the artificial cell system were measured. Results of this study provide quantitative understanding of intermolecular interfacial mass transport that is important in the design of many fore-coming applications of biotechnology.
Journal: TechConnect Briefs
Volume: 3, Nanotechnology 2012: Bio Sensors, Instruments, Medical, Environment and Energy (Volume 3)
Published: June 18, 2012
Pages: 162 - 165
Industry sectors: Advanced Materials & Manufacturing | Medical & Biotech
Topics: Biomaterials, Materials for Drug & Gene Delivery
ISBN: 978-1-4665-6276-9