Conformational transitions of cytochrome c in sub-micron-sized capsules at air/buffer interface

This work presents the design of sub-micron-sized capsules of Cytochrome c (cyt c) in the range 300-350 nm and the conformational transitions of the protein that occur when the films of these capsules spread at the air/buffer interface are subjected to repeated compression-expansion cycles. Steady state fluorescence, time-resolved fluorescence, and circular dichroic (CD) spectra have been used to study the highly compact native conformation (70% helicity) of the protein in the capsules and its stability has been analyzed using cyclic voltammetry. The capsules have been characterized using zeta sizer and high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM). Surface concentration-surface pressure (Γ-π) isotherms of the films of the capsules spread at air/buffer interface following compression-expansion show destabilizing effect on cyt c. FTIR and CD spectra of these films skimmed from the surface show that the protein transitions gradually from its native helical to an anomalous beta sheet aggregated state. This results from a competition between stabilizing hydrated polar segments of the protein in the capsule and destabilizing nonspecific hydrophobic interactions arising at the air/buffer interface. This 2D model could further our understanding of the spatial and temporal roles of proteins in confined spaces and also in the design of new drug delivery vehicles using proteins.