Effect of change of water structure on the phase transition of liposomes of dipalmitoyl phosphatidylcholine

Abstract

AbstractThe role of water structure around model membrane systems (e.g., liposomes) on phase transition of the lipid dipalmitoyl phosphatidylcholine was investigated. Water structure was altered by changing pH and by addition of solutes which are known breakers and makers of water structure. The structure makers broadened the zone of transition and changed the overall phase transition profile, while the main effect of structure breakers was to cause a shift in the transition temperature. The observed variation of Chapman transition temperature and broadening of zone of transition with varying pH is discussed in terms of altered water structure around the membrane–aqueous interface. Binding studies with the dye 1‐anilino‐8‐napthalene sulfonate showed that structure makers or breakers did not bind to the liposome surface directly. Thus the structure makers and breakers act on the membranes perhaps by altering the water structure differentially. Possible associated mechanisms of action are discussed.