We achieved tubulation of self-assembled lipid membranes, liposomes, via the interaction of supramolecular nanofibers, porphyrin J-aggregates. This structural change was reversible, and the deformation of the porphyrin J-aggregates caused reconstruction of the liposomes from the tubes. We discussed the tubulation mechanism and calculated the force provided by porphyrin J-aggregates for tubulation.

Structural control of lipid membranes is important for mechanisms underlying biological functions and for creating high-functionality soft materials. We demonstrate the reversible control of vesicle structures (liposomes) using supramolecular assemblies. Specifically, water-soluble anionic porphyrin molecules interact with positively charged lipid membrane surfaces to form one-dimensional self-assembled structures (J-aggregates) under acidic conditions. Cryogenic transmission electron microscopy revealed that porphyrin J-aggregates on the membrane surface induced an extensive structural change from vesicles to layered disks. Neutralization of the solution deformed the porphyrin J-aggregates, thereby reforming nanosized liposomes from the layered disks.