Evaluating membrane structure by Laurdan imaging: Disruption of lipid packing by oxidized lipids

Abstract

Impact of different lipids on membrane structure/lipid order is critical for multiple biological processes. Laurdan microscopy provides a unique tool to assess this property in heterogeneous biological membranes. This review describes the general principles of the approach and its application in model membranes and cells. It also provides an in-depth discussion of the insights obtained using Laurdan microscopy to evaluate the differential effects of cholesterol, oxysterols and oxidized phospholipids on lipid packing of ordered and disordered domains in vascular endothelial cells.

Keywords: Cholesterol; Membrane fluidity; Membrane order; Ordered domains; Oxidized phospholipids; Oxysterols.