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Lipid-Coated Nanobubbles in Plants
Stephen Ingram1, Steven Jansen2, H Jochen Schenk3
1Institute for Atmospheric and Earth System Research/Physics, University of Helsinki, 00560 Helsinki, Finland.
Nanomaterials (Basel, Switzerland)
|June 10, 2023
Summary
Plant xylem contains surprising nanobubbles stabilized by polar lipids. These lipid-coated nanobubbles persist despite negative pressures and daily fluctuations in the plant vascular system.
Area of Science:
- Plant Biology
- Biophysics
- Materials Science
Background:
- Nanobubbles, or nanoscale bubbles, are observed in the xylem sap of flowering plants.
- The xylem environment is characterized by significant negative pressures and daily fluctuations in pressure and temperature.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the evidence for nanobubbles in plants.
- To explore the role of polar lipids in nanobubble persistence within the xylem.
- To discuss theoretical models for nanobubble formation and stability in plants.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of existing research on plant nanobubbles.
- Analysis of theoretical considerations for nanobubble formation and stabilization mechanisms.
- Examination of the role of lipid monolayers and surface charges.
Main Results:
- Evidence supports the presence of nanobubbles within the plant xylem.
- Polar lipids form monolayers that stabilize nanobubbles against dissolution and pressure changes.
- Mesoporous pit membranes and surface charges contribute to nanobubble formation and prevent coalescence.
Conclusions:
- Lipid-coated nanobubbles are a persistent feature in the dynamic xylem environment.
- The properties of polar lipid monolayers are crucial for nanobubble survival under stress.
- Further research is needed to fully understand the open questions surrounding plant nanobubbles.
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