Polymeric Artificial Cells: from Interfacial Membranization to Cytomimetic Architecture Engineering

Artificial cells emulating the structure and function of living systems have attracted tremendous research attention. By integrating concepts and techniques from chemistry, materials science, and biochemistry, researchers have assembled functional building modules into advanced materials capable of exhibiting life-like behaviors. Recent advances have led to the creation of synthetic cells that mimic key characteristics of living cells. Polymer-based systems attract enormous interest due to their chemical versatility, robustness, and programmability. These attributes allow the construction of artificial cells with precise modulation of physicochemical properties, architecture and functionality. Representative polymeric artificial cells have demonstrated essential hallmarks of life, including membranization, integration of suborganelles, and formation of cytoskeletal frameworks. In this Review, we highlight recent advances in the design, assembly, and functionalization of polymer-based artificial cells, emphasizing how the intrinsic tunability and multifunctionality of polymeric materials enable the recreation and extension of life-like structures, dynamic behaviors, and biological functions.