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Ionic Liquid-Induced Phase-Separated Domains in Lipid Multilayers Probed by X-ray Scattering Studies
Ritika Gupta1, Arnab Singh2, Velaga Srihari3
1Department of Physics, School of Natural Sciences, Shiv Nadar University, NH 92, Tehsil Dadri, G. B. Nagar, Uttar Pradesh 201314, India.
ACS Omega
|March 1, 2021
Summary
Ionic liquids disrupt cellular membranes by inducing phase-separated domains in lipid bilayers. This study reveals how specific ionic liquids cause interdigitated bilayers and alter lipid chain arrangements, impacting cell function.
Area of Science:
- Biophysics
- Materials Science
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Cellular membranes, primarily lipid bilayers, protect cells but can be disrupted by ionic liquids (ILs).
- Understanding IL-lipid interactions is crucial for predicting cellular malfunctions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the structural perturbations induced by ILs in a lipid multilayer system.
- To elucidate the phase behavior and structural changes in lipid bilayers upon IL exposure.
Main Methods:
- Utilized surface-sensitive X-ray scattering techniques.
- Studied a lipid multilayer system composed of 1,2-dipalmitoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (DPPC).
- Examined the effects of ammonium and phosphonium-based ILs with methanesulfonate and p-toluenesulfonate anions.
Main Results:
- Observed IL-induced phase-separated domains within lipid bilayers.
- Identified a correlated smectic liquid crystalline phase with a low repeat distance, indicating interdigitated bilayers.
- Noted changes in the IL-poor phase, including reduced in-plane chain lattice parameters and decreased lipid tilt angles.
- Both methanesulfonate and p-toluenesulfonate anions induced similar structural alterations.
Conclusions:
- Ionic liquids, particularly ammonium and phosphonium-based ones, significantly alter lipid bilayer structure.
- The formation of interdigitated bilayers and modified lipid packing are key responses to IL perturbation.
- These structural changes provide insights into IL-induced cellular malfunctioning.
