From algal cells to autofluorescent ghost plasma membrane vesicles
Nadica Ivošević DeNardis1, Galja Pletikapić1, Ruža Frkanec2
1Ruđer Bošković Institute, Zagreb, Croatia.
Bioelectrochemistry (Amsterdam, Netherlands)
|April 10, 2020
Summary
Researchers developed a method to isolate algal plasma membrane vesicles for use as bio-inspired carriers. These vesicles offer a simplified model for studying membrane processes and hold potential for biotechnological applications.
Area of Science:
- Biophysics
- Marine Biology
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Plasma membrane vesicles serve as non-toxic carriers for microscale transport and models for membrane studies.
- Intracellular processes complicate cell-based studies, necessitating simpler models.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a protocol for isolating ghost plasma membrane vesicles from Dunaliella tertiolecta.
- To characterize the structural and permeability properties of these vesicles.
- To compare algal ghost vesicles with giant unilamellar phospholipid vesicles.
Main Methods:
- Hypoosmotic stress to induce vesicle release from Dunaliella tertiolecta.
- Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) for structural characterization.
- Confocal fluorescence imaging to visualize internal structures.
- Calcein transport assay to assess permeability.
Main Results:
- A protocol for isolating algal ghost plasma membrane vesicles was established.
- AFM revealed a thick envelope and internal globules, possibly from surface coat proteins.
- Confocal imaging showed retained photosynthetic apparatus within the vesicle membrane.
- Algal ghost vesicles exhibited distinct permeability properties compared to giant unilamellar vesicles.
Conclusions:
- Algal ghost membrane vesicles represent a complex system between phospholipid vesicles and cells.
- These vesicles retain native membrane components, including photosynthetic apparatus.
- Their unique properties suggest potential for marine bio-inspired carriers in biotechnology.
