Artificial cell
A constructed particle that imitates one or more of the activities of a biological cell is known as an artificial cell, synthetic cell, or minimal cell. Other names for this kind of cell are synthetic cells and minimum cells. Artificial cells typically consist of biological or polymeric membranes that contain physiologically active components inside their confines. As a consequence of this, liposomes, polymersomes, nanoparticles, microcapsules, and a variety of other particles are all capable of functioning as artificial cells.
Because the phrases "artificial cell" and "synthetic cell" are used in a diverse range of industries and may refer to several distinct things, it is important to note that the various parts of this page reflect these nuances. Some of the more stringent definitions are based on the assumption that the term "cell" directly relates to biological cells and that these structures must be alive (or part of a living organism). In addition, it is assumed that the term "artificial" implies that these structures are artificially built from the bottom up, that is, from basic components. As a result, in the field of synthetic biology, the term "artificial cell" refers to a cell that has been created entirely through the use of synthetic methods and is capable of absorbing energy, preserving ion gradients, containing macromolecules in addition to storing information and having the ability to replicate itself. A synthetic cell similar to this one has not yet been created.
On the other hand, in some contexts, the word "artificial" does not necessarily mean that the entire structure was created by humans; rather, it may be used to refer to the concept that particular functions or structures of biological cells may be simplified, modified, replaced, or supplemented with a synthetic entity.
In some other areas of study, the term "artificial cell" can be used to refer to any compartment that somewhat resembles a biological cell in size or structure, but is made synthetically, or even entirely made from non-biological components. This can be the case even if the compartment is entirely made from non-biological components. It is also common to refer to structures having direct uses as "artificial cells," such as compartments for medication administration. Microencapsulation makes it possible to carry out metabolic processes inside the membrane, as well as facilitate the exchange of tiny molecules and inhibit the passage of big substances through it. Encapsulation has some benefits, the most important of which are enhanced solubility of the payload, better mimicking inside the body, and reduced immunological reactions. Notably, artificial cells have shown promising results in clinical trials including hemoperfusion.