Real-time detection of lipid bilayer assembly and detergent-initiated solubilization using optical cavities

摘要: The cellular membrane governs numerous fundamental biological processes. Therefore, developing a comprehensive understanding of its structure and function is critical. However, inherent complexity gives rise to inter-dependent physical phenomena. In an attempt develop model, two different experimental approaches are being pursued in parallel: performing single cell experiments (top down) using biomimetic structures (bottom up), such as lipid bilayers. One challenge many these the reliance on fluorescent probes for detection which can create confounds this already complex system. present work, label-free method based optical resonant cavity used detect one phenomena system: assembly solubilization bilayer. evanescent field strongly interacts with bilayer, enabling bilayer behavior real-time. Two independent mechanisms confirm formation detergent-assisted bilayers: (1) refractive index change (2) material loss change. Both be monitored parallel, same device, thus allowing cross-confirmation results. To verify proposed method, we have detected self-assembled phosphatidylcholine bilayers from small unilamellar vesicles device surface Subsequently, exposed detergents (non-ionic Triton X-100 anionic sodium dodecyl sulfate) initiate solubilization, process was also After returned initial state, exhibiting minimal hysteresis. wash-off collected analyzed dynamic light scattering.