Using Nanotubes to Bypass Cell Membranes

Apr-12-15 Researchers have developed a way to use carbon nanotubes as a sort of pipeline to deliver specific molecules through the cell membrane and directly to the cell.

Scientists have created synthetic membranes before, which are used to treat water or make medicines, but they are not as permeable as the natural version. To create the artificial pore, the team coated short carbon nanotubes with lipid molecules, which caused them to "spontaneously insert" into the cell membrane without damaging the cell. The new technology can be used to make both artificial and natural membranes permeable, allowing researchers to selectively transport molecules.

The technology could have applications in medicine as well a offering a way to improve existing artificial membranes.

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