Phase separation in model lipid membranes investigated with cryogenic electron microscopy.
Methods Enzymol
; 700: 189-216, 2024.
Article
en En
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-38971600
ABSTRACT
We describe a method for investigating lateral membrane heterogeneity using cryogenic electron microscopy (cryo-EM) images of liposomes. The method takes advantage of differences in the thickness and molecular density of ordered and disordered phases that are resolvable in phase contrast cryo-EM. Compared to biophysical techniques like FRET or neutron scattering that yield ensemble-averaged information, cryo-EM provides direct visualization of individual vesicles and can therefore reveal variability that would otherwise be obscured by averaging. Moreover, because the contrast mechanism involves inherent properties of the lipid phases themselves, no extrinsic probes are required. We explain and discuss various complementary analyses of spatially resolved thickness and intensity measurements that enable an assessment of the membrane's phase state. The method opens a window to nanodomain structure in synthetic and biological membranes that should lead to an improved understanding of lipid raft phenomena.
Palabras clave
Texto completo:
1
Colección:
01-internacional
Base de datos:
MEDLINE
Asunto principal:
Microscopía por Crioelectrón
/
Liposomas
Idioma:
En
Revista:
Methods Enzymol
/
Methods enzymol
/
Methods in enzymology
Año:
2024
Tipo del documento:
Article
Pais de publicación:
Estados Unidos