A new method of transporting ions through cell membranes based on a single amino acid
(PHYSorg.com Chemistry)

Researchers from A*STAR`s Institute of Bioengineering and Nanotechnology (IBN) have successfully developed a unique family of pore-forming monopeptides based on a single amino acid. Other pore-forming peptides typically consist of up to fifty amino acids. The research team, led by IBN Team Leader and Principal Research Scientist Dr Huaqiang Zeng, has created a new paradigm for the efficient transportation of important ions across cellular membranes. This has the potential to tackle diseases where this kind of ion transport has malfunctioned, such as cystic fibrosis.