New synthetic cell membranes set to cut time and costs

The researchers, led by IMRE’s Madhavan Nallani, are using amphiphilic block copolymer membrane for the membrane-like architecture, or matrix.

But the real innovation of the new technology lies in the successful insertion of membrane protein into the artificial matrix to mimic biological processes.

However the new platform technology is no mere novelty; it could revolutionise preclinical development, claim researchers, because unlike their organic counterparts which take days to produce, the synthetic cells can be made in a matter of hours.

And whereas biological cells require a lengthy preparation process, specialists to operate the complex maintenance equipment, and as a result generate high costs, IMRE’s cells are more stable and create a platform for researchers to work on that is both simple to use and easy to maintain in lab environments.

Nallani told Outsourcing-Pharma: “There is always a need to work with membrane proteins (particularly for the membrane proteins difficult to work with cell membranes) in a more stabilized format; our synthetic cell membrane is a stabilized membrane with a natural membrane protein integrated.

“In drug screening, the technology will enhance the process especially the initial entry screening process.”

Open potential​

The team at IMRE, a research institute of the Science and Engineering Research Council (SERC) under Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), are now on the look-out for investors with a strong biopharm experience and network.

However, though their efforts are focused on drug development for the time being, the technology has potential applications in therapeutic antibodies development and even in drug delivery.

Nallani added: “If proven successful, it will have an impact in drug delivery. It may not be possible to implant synthetic cells but it can be used for targeted drug delivery.”