Towards Artificial Ion Channels: Transport of Alkali Metal Ions across Liposomal Membranes by “Bouquet” Molecules

Abstract

If “bouquet” molecules with a central crown ether or cyclodextrin unit and poly(oxyethylene) or polymethylene arms are built into the membranes of liposomes (as shown in the diagram), Na+ and Li+ ions can be transported across the membrane. All the results are consistent with a channel transport mechanism.