[Phase separation in dipalmitoyl phosphatidylcholine bilayers induced by ionophores and binary electrolytes]
Related Experiment Video
Updated: Nov 3, 2026

Phase Behavior of Charged Vesicles Under Symmetric and Asymmetric Solution Conditions Monitored with Fluorescence Microscopy
Published on: October 24, 2017
Abstract:
Thermotropic behavior of unsonicated aqueous dispersion of dipalmitoyl phosphatidylcholine (DPPC) has been studied by scanning microcalorimetry and fluorescent probe method. Phase separation in the lipid bilayers was observed for systems containing ionophores (valinomycin, dinactin) and 1 : 1 electrolytes (NaCl, KCl, RbCl, CsCl). The ratio of lipid phases coexisting in the systems appeared to be dependent on the concentration of the electrolytes. Changes in the thermotropic properties of the lipid phase induced by valinomycin were observed when K+ and Rb+ ions-forming complexes with the ionophore were present in the systems. The latter phenomenon was not found for the systems containing dinactin possessing a lower ability for complex formation with the cations.
Related Concept Videos
Membrane Fluidity
Membrane Fluidity
Mosaic nature of the membrane
The mosaic characteristic of the membrane helps the plasma membrane remain fluid. The integral proteins and lipids exist as separate but loosely-attached molecules in the membrane. The membrane is a relatively...
Asymmetric Lipid Bilayer
Synthesis of Phosphatidylcholine in the ER Membrane
The major components of all eukaryotic cell...
Electrochemical Systems
The Electrical Double Layer

