Biomimetic triblock copolymer membrane arrays: A stable template for functional membrane proteins

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It is demonstrated that biomimetic stable triblock copolymer membrane arrays can be prepared using a scaffold containing 64 apertures of 300 μm diameter each. The membranes were made from a stock solution of block copolymers with decane as a solvent using a new deposition method. By using decane, we avoid low molecular weight solvents such as chloroform and toluene, which are strong protein denaturants. The membranes show a low ionic conductance and a long lifetime at room temperature. Contrast phase microscopy shows the presence of a polymer region delimited by a Plateau-Gibbs border similar to what is observed in black lipid membranes. The ion-channel gramicidin A was successfully incorporated into the membrane in a functional form.

Original languageEnglish
JournalLangmuir
Volume25
Issue number18
Pages (from-to)10447-10450
Number of pages4
ISSN0743-7463
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 15 Sep 2009

ID: 230976831