Photomodulation of vesicle dynamics using fluorescent photoswitchable amphiphiles

-isomerization induces asymmetric expansion of the outer membrane leaflet, increasing surface tension and bending modulus, key drivers of the observed shape changes. Furthermore, cargo release assays with LUVs demonstrated controlled, reversible light-induced permeability. The temporal mismatch between morphological response and ROS (reactive oxygen species) generation, along with the reversibility of the effects, supports a non-oxidative, photomechanical mechanism. Based on these findings, fluorescent photoswitchable amphiphiles can be considered as powerful tools for both functional membrane engineering and the study of the relationship between molecular-level interactions, polarity, and macroscale membrane behavior.