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Light control protein channel nano valve developed successfully
Light-controlled protein channels could mark the dawn of a new era in nanotechnology. In principle, constructing a nanodevice isn't so different from building any other kind of machinery. Engineers first conceptualize the necessary components and then figure out how to assemble them to achieve a specific function. However, the real challenge lies in designing these devices at the nanoscale—where traditional engineering principles don’t always apply. Fortunately, nature has already solved many of these problems through evolution, offering scientists a wealth of inspiration from the world of proteins.
At the University of Gothenburg and the BiOMaDe Technology Center in the Netherlands, researchers have taken a groundbreaking approach by leveraging natural protein structures. Ben Feringa highlighted MscL, a membrane protein found in *E. coli*, which acts as a channel regulating the flow of substances in and out of the cell. Under light exposure, this channel can be reversed or turned off, functioning like a safety valve. He explained, "It prevents cells from bursting. When internal pressure becomes too high, the pore opens up to 3 nanometers, allowing materials to escape. This is an excellent, self-regulating mechanism that can be controlled with precision."
Normally, MscL remains closed due to hydrophobic interactions. But when there's significant stress, the channel opens automatically. Feringa and his team developed a reversible optical switch that activates under ultraviolet light and deactivates under visible light. This switch was attached to a specific site on the MscL monomer, and the modified protein was embedded into a synthetic membrane. The results showed that UV light could open the channel, while visible light could close it again. In follow-up experiments, they introduced the modified MscL into microliposomes containing fluorescent dyes. The findings revealed that light could effectively control the release of the dye, with only minimal leakage observed.
This is still early-stage research, but the potential applications are promising. Scientists are working to refine the technique, aiming for use in targeted drug delivery systems. Feringa envisions even broader possibilities, believing that these tiny molecular switches could serve as fundamental building blocks for advanced nanodevices. He remarked, "In nanotechnology, we often struggle with integrating parts and ensuring they work together properly." His vision goes beyond individual valves—seeing them as part of larger nanofluidic systems that could perform complex, coordinated functions. The next step, he says, is to explore how to combine these nano-valves with other components to create fully functional nanoscale devices.