EAGER: Fluorescence Studies of Surface Micro-heterogeneity in Thermoacidophile Lipid Membranes

Temple University, Philadelphia PA

Investigators

Abstract

Abstract #1350841 Chong, Parkson L. Stable liposomes have many potential uses in drug formulations (and even skin-care products). Liposomes that can withstand autoclaving are especially desirable for medical applications. The PI proposes to investigate highly stable bipolar membranes (liposomes) with fluorescent tags that probe membrane properties at different membrane depths or at different lateral positions. Specifically, he hypothesizes that there should be significant structural and functional heterogeneities along the membrane normal and in the plane of the membrane, which are of critical importance in understanding membrane structure-function relationship for these ultra-stable architectures. The results obtained from this research should enhance the understanding of lipid-protein interactions and solute permeation in archaeal membranes and will have profound implications in technological applications, such as extraordinarily stable lipid matrix for biosensors, light harvesting devices, and nanoparticles for targeted imaging and therapy.