Aggregation of lasalocid A in membranes: a fluorescence study

Biochim Biophys Acta. 1992 Feb 17;1104(1):147-50. doi: 10.1016/0005-2736(92)90143-a.

Abstract

The aggregation behavior of the carboxylic ionophore, lasalocid A, has been studied in egg phosphatidylcholine vesicles by monitoring the intrinsic fluorescence of lasalocid A. Self quenching of lasalocid A fluorescence in vesicles of egg phosphatidylcholine suggests aggregation of lasalocid A. When aggregated lasalocid A is treated with increasing concentrations of lipid, there is an increase in fluorescence due to gradual reduction of self quenching on lateral dilution. This confirms the presence of loosely held non-covalent aggregates of lasalocid A in the membrane. This result is relevant in elucidating the molecular mechanism of cation transport by lasalocid A across membranes.

MeSH terms

  • Cell Membrane / chemistry*
  • Lasalocid / chemistry*
  • Lipids / chemistry
  • Molecular Structure
  • Spectrometry, Fluorescence

Substances

  • Lipids
  • Lasalocid