Mechanics and dynamics of triglyceride-phospholipid model membranes: Implications for cellular properties and function

Kirsi I. Pakkanen, Lars Duelund, Klaus Qvortrup, John Hjorth Ipsen

Research output: Contribution to journalJournal articleResearchpeer-review

28 Citations (Scopus)

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 languageEnglish
JournalBBA General Subjects
Volume1808
Issue number8
Pages (from-to)1947-56
Number of pages10
ISSN0304-4165
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 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

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