Purdue University Graduate School
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BIO-MOLECULAR TRANSPORTATION VIA DNA NANOPORES IN LIVE CELL SYSTEM AND THEIR BIO-APPLICATIONS

thesis
posted on 2025-04-03, 15:42 authored by Sang hoon UmSang hoon Um

The integration of DNA nanopores as synthetic channels within live cell membranes marks a pivotal advancement in biomedical science. These precisely engineered and highly programmable structures enable the selective and efficient transport of biomolecules across cellular barriers, offering a powerful alternative to conventional delivery mechanisms. By harnessing the inherent programmability, structural tunability, and biocompatibility of DNA, these nanopores provide customized solutions for targeted molecular transport. Crucially, DNA nanopores address key limitations of existing pore-forming technologies, including reliance on endocytosis machinery, the restricted size range of transmembrane proteins, and biocompatibility concerns. Their ability to mediate the transport of diverse biomolecules—including small molecules and proteins—across both prokaryotic and eukaryotic membranes underscores their versatility and functional efficacy. This technology not only enhances our understanding of membrane transport mechanisms but also opens new avenues for therapeutic applications, such as precision drug delivery, biosensing, and synthetic biology. Through a detailed exploration of DNA nanopore functionality in live cell systems, this study contributes to the development of next-generation tools for biomedical research and translational medicine.

History

Degree Type

  • Doctor of Philosophy

Department

  • Biomedical Engineering

Campus location

  • West Lafayette

Advisor/Supervisor/Committee Chair

Leopold N. Green

Additional Committee Member 2

Krishna Jayant

Additional Committee Member 3

Chengde Mao

Additional Committee Member 4

Fang Huang

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