Ions in motion: From biological channels to engineered transport systems
Bei Wu, Yifan Yan, Yuting Zhu, Changxing Ji, Yangyang Lin, Chao Lang
Abstract
Natural membrane proteins are molecular machines evolved over billions of years, playing crucial roles in various physiological functions by precisely mediating transmembrane transport processes. Inspired by these marvels, people have developed many artificial transport systems with structures and functions matching those of natural proteins. Compared to proteins in nature, engineered transport systems offer advantage in structural simplicity, stability, and cost-effectiveness. These artificial systems could find applications in areas ranging from medical treatment to new materials, and to biotechnologies. This review begins by examining ionic flow in nature, where the high efficiency and selectivity of protein channels have inspired engineered systems. We then explore different types of artificial transport systems, including artificial channels, transporters, and nanopores, and techniques for characterizing these systems. Applications in therapeutics, biotechnologies, separation, and energy harvesting are discussed. Finally, we offer perspectives and outlook on the further advancement of the artificial ion transport systems. Natural membrane proteins are molecular machines that mediate transmembrane transport with high efficiency and selectivity, inspiring the development of artificial transport systems. This review examines natural ionic flow, explores artificial channels, transporters, and nanopores, and their applications in medicine, biotechnology, and energy harvesting.