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Interactions of ionic and non-ionic surfactants with plasma low density lipoprotein
The Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology
|November 1, 1983
Summary
Surfactants can alter low-density lipoprotein (LDL2) structure, potentially aiding drug delivery. Interactions involve LDL2 unfolding and lipid removal, suggesting LDL2 as a model for surfactant studies.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Physical Chemistry
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Low-density lipoprotein (LDL2) is a key lipid carrier.
- Surfactants are amphipathic molecules with diverse biological interactions.
- Drug delivery into LDL2's core is challenging.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of various surfactants on LDL2 structure.
- To explore the potential of LDL2 as a model system for surfactant-membrane interactions.
- To assess surfactant-induced changes in LDL2 for drug encapsulation.
Main Methods:
- Photon correlation spectroscopy (PCS) to measure particle size changes.
- Sedimentation velocity analytical ultracentrifugation (SV-AUC) for structural analysis.
- Systematic variation of surfactant types (ionic and non-ionic) and concentrations.
Main Results:
- Surfactants caused a ~50% increase in LDL2 Stokes' radius at low concentrations, indicating protein unfolding and intercalation.
- Higher surfactant concentrations led to decreased Stokes' radius due to LDL2 delipidation.
- Ionic and non-ionic surfactants exhibited concentration-dependent structural modifications.
Conclusions:
- Surfactants induce significant structural changes in LDL2, including partial unfolding and delipidation.
- LDL2 serves as a relevant model for studying surfactant interactions with biological membranes.
- Understanding these interactions could inform strategies for modifying LDL2 for therapeutic purposes.