Atomistic simulation of molecules interacting with biological nanopores: from current understanding to future directions

Abstract

Biological nanopores have been at the focus of numerous studies due to their role in many biological processes as well as their (prospective) technological applications. Among many other topics, recent studies on nanopores have addressed two key areas: antibiotic permeation through bacterial channels and sensing of analytes. Although the two areas are quite far apart in terms of their objectives, in both cases atomistic simulations attempt to understand the solute dynamics and the solute–protein interactions within the channel lumen. While decades of studies on various channels have culminated in an improved understanding of the key molecular factors and led to practical applications in some cases, successful utilization is limited. In this Perspective we summarize recent progress in understanding key issues in molecular simulations of antibiotic translocation and in the development of nanopore sensors. Moreover, we comment on possible advancements in computational algorithms that can potentially resolve some of the issues.