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Dynamic Continuum of Molecular Assemblies for Controlling Cell Fates
Author(s) -
Wang Huaimin,
Feng Zhaoqianqi,
Xu Bing
Publication year - 2019
Publication title -
chembiochem
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.05
H-Index - 126
eISSN - 1439-7633
pISSN - 1439-4227
DOI - 10.1002/cbic.201900168
Subject(s) - morphogenesis , nanotechnology , biological cell , synthetic biology , computer science , biological system , materials science , chemistry , biology , computational biology , biochemistry , gene
Biological systems have evolved to create a structural and dynamic continuum of bio‐macromolecular assemblies for the purpose of optimizing the system′s functions. The formation of these dynamic higher‐order assemblies is precisely controlled by biological cues. However, controlling the self‐assembly of synthetic molecules spatiotemporally in or on live cells is still a big challenge, especially for performing functions. This concept article introduces the use of in situ reactions as a spatiotemporal control to form assemblies of small molecules that induce cell morphogenesis or apoptosis. After briefly introducing a representative example of a natural dynamic continuum of the higher‐order assemblies, we describe enzyme‐instructed self‐assembly (EISA) for constructing dynamic assemblies of small molecules, then discuss the use of EISA for controlling cell morphogenesis and apoptosis. Finally, we provide a brief outlook to discuss the future perspective of this exciting new research direction.