Abstract

Three geometric relations for vesicle equilibrium within the Helfrich elasticity model have been derived. The relations can serve to determine the spontaneous curvature c0 and cell internal pressure −Δp=pin−pext from the vesicle shape. In analogy with the theory of the flexoelectric effect of nematic liquid crystals we have also obtained a relation between c0 and the membrane potential. By applying these predictions to the human red blood cell (RBC) shape measured by Evans and Fung we found good agreement of the calculated potential with measured values previously given by other biologists by direct impaling RBC with a microelectrode. The calculated value of the internal pressure is discussed by comparison with previous works.

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.