Reconstitution of Channel Proteins in (Polymerized) ABA Triblock Copolymer Membranes

Abstract

A new class of mechanically stable block copolymer protein hybrid materials: Giant freestanding membranes with a thickness of 10 nm were prepared from polymerizable amphiphilic triblock copolymers in which, despite their extreme thickness, it was possible to reconstitute channel proteins. The proteins remained functional in the completely artificial surrounding even after polymerization of the membranes, as revealed by conductance measurements. These polymer–protein hybrid materials possess great potential for applications in the area of diagnostics, sensor technology, protein crystallization, and even drug delivery.