Closer look at structure of fully hydrated fluid phase DPPC bilayers

Biophys J. 2006 Jun 1;90(11):L83-5. doi: 10.1529/biophysj.106.086017. Epub 2006 Apr 14.

Abstract

X-ray data are presented for the benchmark dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine lipid bilayer in the most biologically relevant state in which the bilayers are fully hydrated and in the fluid (liquid-crystalline) phase. Form factors F(q(z)) are obtained from a combination of two sample preparations, oriented stacks of bilayers for q(z) extending to 0.85 A(-1) and unilamellar vesicles for smaller q(z). Modeling obtains the electron density profile and values for the area per molecule, for the locations of the component groups, and for the different types of thicknesses of the bilayer, such as the hydrocarbon thickness and the steric thickness.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • 1,2-Dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine / chemistry*
  • Lipid Bilayers / chemistry*
  • Models, Biological
  • Phase Transition
  • Water / chemistry*
  • X-Ray Diffraction

Substances

  • Lipid Bilayers
  • Water
  • 1,2-Dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine