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Reactions inside confined compartments at the nanoscale represent an essential step in the development of complex multifunctional systems to serve as molecular factories. In this respect, the biomimetic approach of combining biomolecules (proteins, enzymes, mimics) with synthetic membranes is an elegant way to create functional nanoreactors, or even simple artificial organelles, that function inside cells after uptake. Functionality is provided by the specificity of the biomolecule(s), whilst the synthetic compartment provides mechanical stability and robustness. The availability of a large variety of biomolecules and synthetic membranes allows the properties and functionality of these reaction spaces to be tailored and adjusted for building complex self-organized systems as the basis for molecular factories.

2D/3D structures resulting from self-assembly of amphiphilic block copolymers can be combined with bioactive compounds, such as proteins and enzymes, to create supramolecular assemblies with specific desired properties and functionality. Chemical tuning of the architecture and properties of supramolecular assemblies to accommodate sensitive biomolecules allows the development of new soft hybrid materials that benefit from the robustness of polymers and from the functionality of biomolecules. The encapsulation/insertion of biomolecules (enzymes, mimics, proteins) in self-assembling block copolymer vesicles enables design of 'nanoreactors' both in solutions and at surfaces for highly diverse applications, ranging from production of antibiotics to creation of artificial organelles. When membrane proteins are inserted into polymer membranes, it is possible to generate functional membranes or active surfaces with a rapid and specific response. In addition, the selective binding of ligand-terminated polymers holds potential for targeted delivery of drugs, or for immobilization on solid support, to provide functional 3D assemblies on an extended surface.