artificialcell
An artificial cell, also referred to as a synthetic or protocell in some contexts, is a cell-like system constructed from non-living materials to mimic one or more basic features of living cells. Artificial cells are designed to have boundary membranes, internal compartments, and biochemical networks capable of processing energy, synthesizing molecules, or responding to stimuli. They are used in research across synthetic biology, biophysics, and origin-of-life studies to understand what is required for cellular life and to explore potential applications.
Most artificial cells are built around a membrane-bound compartment such as lipid vesicles or polymersomes that
Applications include fundamental studies of membrane biophysics and the origin of life, as well as practical
Challenges remain in achieving robust self-maintenance, reproduction, and evolution, as well as ensuring safety, scalability, and