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Analysis of the shape fluctuations of reconstituted membranes using GUVs made from lipid extracts of invertebrates.

ABSTRACT: Changes in the physical properties of the lipid matrix of cell membranes have repeatedly been proposed to underlie stresses associated with e.g. drought, cold and xenobiotics. Therefore, the ability to experimentally monitor such properties is central to the fundamental physiological understanding of adaptive changes. Here, we test the analysis of shape fluctuations in membranes composed of lipid extracts from two soil invertebrates, and show that theories and experimental approaches previously developed for simpler liposomes may be applied directly to reconstituted membrane lipids. Specifically, we show how the bending rigidity of giant unilamellar liposomes of lipid extracts can be determined precisely. We suggest that future measurements of this parameter could elucidate mechanisms of adaptive processes such as changes in lipid composition and accumulation of protective osmolytes.

SUBMITTER: Bouvrais H 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3625865 | biostudies-other | 2013 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-other

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Analysis of the shape fluctuations of reconstituted membranes using GUVs made from lipid extracts of invertebrates.

Bouvrais Hélène H   Holmstrup Martin M   Westh Peter P   Ipsen John H JH  

Biology open 20130131 4

Changes in the physical properties of the lipid matrix of cell membranes have repeatedly been proposed to underlie stresses associated with e.g. drought, cold and xenobiotics. Therefore, the ability to experimentally monitor such properties is central to the fundamental physiological understanding of adaptive changes. Here, we test the analysis of shape fluctuations in membranes composed of lipid extracts from two soil invertebrates, and show that theories and experimental approaches previously  ...[more]