Visualization and quantification of transmembrane ion transport into giant unilamellar vesicles.

ABSTRACT: Transmembrane ion transporters (ionophores) are widely investigated as supramolecular agents with potential for biological activity. Tests are usually performed in synthetic membranes that are assembled into large unilamellar vesicles (LUVs). However transport must be followed through bulk properties of the vesicle suspension, because LUVs are too small for individual study. An alternative approach is described whereby ion transport can be revealed and quantified through direct observation. The method employs giant unilamellar vesicles (GUVs), which are 20-60 μm in diameter and readily imaged by light microscopy. This allows characterization of individual GUVs containing transporter molecules, followed by studies of transport through fluorescence emission from encapsulated indicators. The

SUBMITTER: Valkenier H 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4506561 | biostudies-literature | 2015 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature