Mechanisms of electromechanical coupling in membranes demonstrated by transmembrane potential-dependent shape transformations of human erythrocytes

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Human red blood cells in electrolyte solutions become stomatocytes if the transmembrane potential goes beyond +25 mV, and transform into echinocytes if the transmembrane potential becomes negative. This correlation can be found when inducing the membrane potential change in various ways (Cl − and pH e modifications, electric breakdown, ionophores, ghosts). No correlation between the shapes and the internal or external pH could be found. Shape transformations which are produced by amphiphilic drugs can be overcome by the electric membrane potential. The mechanisms of this process are obviously complex. Translocations of small charged molecules between the internal and the external lipid leaflet seem to be important. This process is discussed as a model for electromechanical coupling mechanisms in membranes.