Disc formation in cholesterol-free liposomes during phase transition.
Cryogenic transmission electron microscopy (cryo-TEM) images of lysolipid-containing thermosensitive liposomes (LTSL) revealed that open liposomes and bilayer discs appeared when liposomes were cycled through the gel (Lbeta') to liquid-crystalline (Lalpha) phase transition. The amount of bilayer discs generated was dependent on the combined presence of PEG-lipid and lysolipid in the membrane. We hypothesize that micelle-forming membrane components stabilize the rim of bilayer openings and membrane discs that form when liposomes are cycled through TC.
Ickenstein
Ludger M
LM
Department of Advanced Therapeutics, The British Columbia Cancer Agency Research Centre, 601 West 10th Avenue, Vancouver, BC, Canada V5Z 1L3.
Arfvidsson
Maria C
MC
Needham
David
D
Mayer
Lawrence D
LD
Edwards
Katarina
K
D020285:Cryoelectron Microscopy; D008051:Lipid Bilayers / Q000737:chemistry; D008081:Liposomes / Q000737:chemistry*; D008823:Micelles; D044367:Phase Transition; D011092:Polyethylene Glycols / Q000737:chemistry; D013696:Temperature
D008051:Lipid Bilayers; D008081:Liposomes; D008823:Micelles; D011092:Polyethylene Glycols