University of Sussex
Browse

File(s) not publicly available

Electroporation in symmetrical and asymmetric membranes

journal contribution
posted on 2023-06-08, 18:28 authored by I Genco, A Gliozzi, A Relini, M Robello, Enrico Scalas
We present results of electrical measurements performed both on symmetric and asymmetric membranes in current-clamp conditions. The current—voltage characteristic curve of the membranes shows a reversible conductance transition to a higher level above a critical potential Vc. The experimental results are interpreted in the light of the electroporation theory, which allows estimates of the line tension to be made. These estimates are compared to previous experimental findings or theoretical calculations. The behaviour of symmetric membranes of different chain lengths or consisting of mixtures of short and long chains indicates a strong dependence of Vc on the chain composition and on the presence of charges on the polar head. The electroporation process is also analyzed in asymmetric bilayers consisting of a charged and an uncharged monolayer, a condition which mimics that of natural membranes. Therefore it is possible to analyze the electrical forces acting on the uncharged monolayer due to the presence of charges on the other one, under several ionic-strength conditions. It is shown that the instability arises in the uncharged monolayer, while the coupling between the two monolayers triggers the electroporation process.

History

Publication status

  • Published

Journal

BBA - Biochimica et Biophysica Acta

ISSN

0006-3002

Publisher

Elsevier

Issue

1

Volume

1149

Page range

10-18

Department affiliated with

  • Mathematics Publications

Full text available

  • No

Peer reviewed?

  • Yes

Legacy Posted Date

2014-10-03

Usage metrics

    University of Sussex (Publications)

    Categories

    No categories selected

    Exports

    RefWorks
    BibTeX
    Ref. manager
    Endnote
    DataCite
    NLM
    DC