Dynamic light scattering study of calcium-induced fusion in phospholipid vesicles

Biochim Biophys Acta. 1977 Nov 1;470(3):503-8. doi: 10.1016/0005-2736(77)90142-0.

Abstract

Acidic sonicated phospholipid vesicles can undergo dramatic morphological changes due to fusion in the presence of divalent metal ions. For example, small spherical phosphatidylserine vesicles can form scroll-like cylinders which precipitate in the presence of Ca2+ above a threshold concentration. Subsequent addition of EDTA will yield large, unilamellar vesicles. These events have previously been established through the combined use of differential scanning calorimetry and freeze-fracture electron microscopy. We have applied the technique of dynamic light scattering to follow these fusion events rapidly, accurately, and non-perturbatively as they occur in solution at calcium concentrations slightly below threshold for precipitation.

MeSH terms

  • Calcium*
  • Chemical Phenomena
  • Chemistry
  • Edetic Acid
  • Membranes, Artificial*
  • Models, Biological
  • Phospholipids*
  • Scattering, Radiation

Substances

  • Membranes, Artificial
  • Phospholipids
  • Edetic Acid
  • Calcium