What is it about?
This study delves into the fascinating world of lipid molecules, employing a simplified model to unravel their self-assembly dynamics. Using a coarse-grained implicit solvent model, we depict lipid molecules as rigid, three-bead rod-like structures. In addition to self-assembly, our model accurately generates all three phases of lipid bilayers—gel, ripple, and liquid phases—with temperature variations.
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Why is it important?
Our exploration not only accurately reproduces the spontaneous creation of lipid bilayers but also unravels the complex shifts between the gel phase, liquid phase, and the elusive ripple phase (Pβ). Significantly, we highlight the crucial influence of molecular rigidity in triggering ripple phase formation. These findings could reshape our comprehension of lipid bilayer behavior, particularly shedding light on the elusive ripple phase. This understanding may pave the way for future investigations into the role of biological membranes in cellular processes.
Perspectives
This study marks the first successful reproduction of the elusive ripple phase and transitions in L_β and L_α at specific temperature and density conditions using an implicit solvent coarse-grained rigid rod like model
Biplab Bawali
University of Calcutta
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Investigating lipid bilayer self-assembly and formation of ripple phase: Insights from a coarse-grained implicit solvent model, AIP Advances, January 2024, American Institute of Physics,
DOI: 10.1063/5.0183012.
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