Droplet interface bilayers (DIBs) are model membranes formed between lipid monolayer-encased water droplets in oil. Compared to conventional methods, one of the most unique properties of DIBs is that they can be connected together to generate multi-layered ‘tissue-like’ networks, however introducing communication pathways between these compartments typically relies on water-soluble pores that are unable to gate. Here, we show that network connectivity can instead be achieved using a water-insoluble membrane protein by successfully reconstituting a chemically activatable mutant of the mechanosensitive channel MscL into a network of DIBs. Moreover, we also show how the small molecule activator can diffuse through an open channel and across the neighbouring droplet to activate MscL present in an adjacent bilayer. This demonstration of membrane protein mediated bilayer communication could prove key toward developing the next generation of responsive bilayer networks capable of defining information flow inside a minimal tissue.

液滴界面双层（DIB）是在油脂中包裹脂质单层的水滴之间形成的模型膜。与传统方法相比，DIB的最独特特性之一是它们可以连接在一起以生成多层的“组织样”网络，但是，在这些隔室之间引入通信路径通常依赖于无法分离的水溶性孔。门。在这里，我们显示可以通过使用机械不敏感通道MscL的化学可活化突变体成功重构为DIBs网络来使用水不溶性膜蛋白来实现网络连接。此外，我们还显示了小分子激活剂如何通过开放通道扩散并跨过相邻液滴，从而激活相邻双层中存在的MscL。