Giant liposome as a biochemical reactor: Transcription of DNA and transportation by laser tweezers

Transcription of T7 DNA has been performed within cell-sized (similar to 10 mum) liposomes that were formed by natural hydration of phospholipid films. From direct observation by fluorescence microscopy, it was confirmed that the cell-sized liposome behaves as a barrier that can prevent the attack of RNase in the bathing solution surrounding it. It is shown that. the liposome encapsulating the transcripts can be transported by use of laser tweezers. Such newly developed procedures on cell-sized liposomes would have applications in the microlaboratory of biochemistry and molecular biology.