Genetically Encoded Membranes for Bottom‐Up Biology

The creation of self‐replicating cell‐mimicking systems – artificial cells – is one of the major goals of bottom‐up synthetic biology. An essential aspect of such systems is the realization of membranous compartments which can grow and divide in synchrony with the internal dynamics of the cells. Amphiphiles capable of forming membranes may be either externally provided to feed the growing compartments, or generated in situ through chemical processes. In the context of autonomously self‐replicating systems, genetically encoded membranes are of particular interest. Herein, we discuss typical approaches taken for the creation of cell‐like microcompartments via self‐assembly of amphiphiles. We specifically address some of the challenges associated with the generation of phospholipid or peptide‐based membranes via genetic and enzymatic processes. Jigsaw pieces: One of the major challenges for the creation of self‐replicating synthetic cells is the generation of membrane‐forming molecules by the cells themselves, which is required for cellular growth and ultimately cell division. Herein, different approaches and recent advances towards genetically encoded production of membranes are reviewed. Next to lipid membranes we discuss the potential production of membranes from amphiphilic peptides, and we address some of the challenges for the various approaches taken.