Layer-by-layer assembly of magnetic polypeptide nanotubes as a DNA carrier

Biodegradable and multifunctionalized nanotubes are of special interest since they can be applied to biological systems including bioseparation, biocatalysis and biomolecule delivery. In this paper, magnetic polypeptide nanotubes were fabricated through the layer-by-layer (LbL) assembly of poly-L-lysine hydrochloride (PLL), poly-L-glutamic acid (PGA) and magnetic nanoparticles within the inner pores of polycarbonate templates with subsequent removal of the templates. The wall thickness and inner diameter of as-prepared nanotubes can be tuned by changing the assembled layers, and the length and outer diameter are dependent on the used templates. These magnetic polypeptide nanotubes can be used as a DNA carrier and manipulated under magnetic force.