Effects of electroformation protocol parameters on quality of homogeneous GUV populations

Abstract

Giant unilamellar vesicles (GUVs) have become one of extensively studied biological bilayer models especially when investigating topological and mechanical properties of cell membranes. They are also used to visualize membrane-related phenomena. However, the method of preparation and the effects of parameters of preparation on the vesicular structure are extensively varied. Therefore, it is important to understand how the process of formation of GUVs influences the outcome population, as it can influence the outcome of the experiment that is planned. Therefore, in this study, we investigated the effects of protocol parameters of electroformation on properties of homogeneous population of POPC GUVs. The parameters investigated in this study are duration of electroformation, usage of electrodes and frequency of applied AC field and its voltage. The properties investigated, which can be used to describe GUV populations are average diameter of vesicle, the amount of lipid molecules in population, and structure of vesicles. According to our results, prolonged time (greater than 4 h) does not influence outcome; however, parameters of applied electrical field (voltage and frequency) did significantly influence the properties of obtained POPC GUV populations.