Engineers want artificial cells that can move, change shape and deliver drugs. Some single-celled organisms use a fast calcium pulse to trigger contraction, and then use ATP later to reset calcium stores.
Researchers produced a calcium-binding protein called Tcb2 that forms a fibrous network in the lab. They used a light-sensitive calcium chelator, a "cage" molecule that holds calcium until light breaks it, so they could control when and where calcium appeared.
Projecting light patterns made the network assemble and contract in matching shapes. Repeated light pulses drove many cycles and the network could move microscopic particles, a step toward controllable actuation for synthetic delivery systems.
Difficult words
- artificial — made by people, not natural
- contraction — when something becomes smaller and tighter
- calcium — a common mineral in cells and bones
- chelator — a molecule that binds and holds metal ions
- assemble — to put parts together to make something
- actuation — action or movement caused by a device
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Would you want tiny cells to deliver medicine inside the body? Why or why not?
- How could using light to control molecules be useful in everyday life?
- What safety questions would you ask about systems that move and deliver drugs?
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