Light-driven molecular motors to trigger transmembrane transport of anions

Anion transport through membranes, mediated by transport proteins, is one of the most important processes in living cells. Recently, a number of synthetic transmembrane anion transporters have been developed. However, unlike proteins, they usually do not display responsive behaviour, making their function unspecific.

There are only a few methods known for controlling the transport function of these receptors by physiochemical stimuli, with using light being one of the most well-known.

These stimuli-responsive receptors, however, only alternate between distinct ""on"" and ""off"" states, while biomolecular systems are able to use the motion of motor proteins to regulate the passage of ions.

Two first studies have shown that rotating molecular motors can enhance cation transport through membrane-spanning channels, possibly by influencing conformational dynamics. However, there have been no detailed studies that take advantage of subtle changes in membrane characteristics.

It would be very promising to enhance and regulate anion transport across the membrane by integrating molecular machine-like entities into lipid bilayers and synthetic transport systems.

MOTOTRANS is a multidisciplinary project that aims to develop transmembrane anion transport systems containing light-driven molecular motors.

The out-of-equilibrium rotational dynamics of light-driven molecular motors could influence either membrane, carrier or channel properties, resulting in enhanced transport activity, which will be investigated in work packages 1-3, respectively.

The project will have three major impacts: an innovative approach with profound implications in molecular machines and transmembrane anion transport; a significant impact on the fellow's academic career, acquiring new research skills, complementary skills, and scientific connections, enabling access to an academic position in Europe; and the host group and institution will benefit from the fellow's diverse scientific background and network.