![Janus particles are coexisting phase particles. They are at the forefront of scientific research and have the potential to be used in variety of different […]](/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/NEWSICON2-620x300.png "Janus nano-particles")
Janus particles are coexisting phase particles. They are at the forefront of scientific research and have the potential to be used in variety of different applications, from water filtration to drug delivery systems. Scientists from the Universities of Warwick and Sydney have developed nanotubes which display Janus characteristics, naming them Janus nanotubes.
Janus nanotubes have a tubular structure made from cyclic peptides. They are approximatively 1nm wide. Although, 1 nm may seem exceptionally small, this is just the right size to allow small molecules and ions to pass through. The cyclic peptides have a different polymers attached to them which tend not to mix and allow for the compartmentalization of the tubes. In solid state these tubules have the remarkable ability to form solid membranes, acting as molecular ‘gates’ that allow one molecule through at a time enabling molecule separation. This property can be used to enhance the filtration of water.
As liquids, these tubules assemble in bilayers due to the hydrophobic tails. This results in the formation of pores that then enable the selective transport of molecules. If a single stranded DNA (aptamers) is attached, then the drug would only be active in specific areas of the body. Current research groups around the world are trying to tailor this research to develop medication for specific diseases. Sebastian Perrier from the university of Warwick summarises the used of Janus particles for drug delivery methods:
“As ion channels are a key component of a wide variety of biological process, for example in cardiac, skeletal and muscle contraction, T-cell activation and pancreatic beta-cell insulin release, they are a frequent target in the search for new drugs.”
