Abstract
We demonstrate here that triolein alters the mechanical properties of phospholipid membranes and induces extraordinary conformational dynamics. Triolein containing membranes exhibit fluctuations up to size range of 100µm and with the help of these are e.g. able to squeeze through narrow passages between neighbouring structures. Triolein-phosphatidylcholine membranes were found to have bending rigidity significantly lower than that of corresponding pure phosphatidylcholine membrane. Moreover, the triolein containing membranes were found to be reluctant to fuse, which is in good accordance with larger lamellar distances observed in the TOPOPC membranes. These findings suggest repulsion between adjacent membranes. We provide a comprehensive discussion on the possible explanations for the observed mechanics and dynamics in the TOPOPC system and on their potential cellular implications.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Journal | BBA General Subjects |
| Volume | 1808 |
| Issue number | 8 |
| Pages (from-to) | 1947-56 |
| Number of pages | 10 |
| ISSN | 0304-4165 |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | Published - Aug 2011 |
Keywords
- Calorimetry, Differential Scanning
- Cell Membrane
- Elasticity
- Fluorescence Resonance Energy Transfer
- Membrane Fluidity
- Membrane Fusion
- Membranes, Artificial
- Microscopy, Confocal
- Microscopy, Electron, Transmission
- Microscopy, Phase-Contrast
- Molecular Conformation
- Phosphatidylcholines
- Scattering, Small Angle
- Triolein