Regulation of transbilayer plasma membrane phospholipid asymmetry

Lipid trafficking to the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria

The envelope of Gram-negative bacteria is composed of two distinct lipid membranes: an inner membrane and outer membrane. The outer membrane is an asymmetric bilayer with an inner leaflet of phospholipids and an outer leaflet of lipopolysaccharide. Most of the steps of lipid synthesis occur within the cytoplasmic compartment of the cell. Lipids must then be transported across the inner membrane and delivered to the outer membrane. These topological features combined with the ability to apply the tools of biochemistry and genetics make the Gram-negative envelope a fascinating model for the study of lipid trafficking. In addition, as lipopolysaccharide is essential for growth of most strains and is a potent inducer of the mammalian innate immune response via activation of Toll-like receptors, Gram-negative lipid transport is also a promising target for the development of novel antibacterial and anti-inflammatory compounds. This review focuses on recent developments in our understanding of lipid transport across the inner membrane and to the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria.

The role of cholesterol in prostate cancer

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Experimental and epidemiological evidence suggests that cholesterol may play a promotional role in prostate cancer development and progression. This review seeks to provide an overview of established links between cholesterol and prostate cancer, with an emphasis on very recent scientific contributions supporting a role of cholesterol in prostate cancer etiology.

RECENT FINDINGS

Elevated cholesterol levels in prostate cancer cells have been found to result from aberrant regulation of cholesterol metabolism. Recent studies have identified Akt/protein kinase B and sterol response element binding proteins as major players regulating cholesterol biosynthesis and feedback regulation. It has also become apparent that prostate cancer cells process critical cell survival cues via specialized membrane microdomains that are dependent on cholesterol for signal transduction. These findings converge to support a scenario in which abnormal cholesterol metabolism influences signal transduction events at the membrane in a manner that promotes tumor cell growth, inhibits apoptotic signals and potentially stimulates other malignant cellular behaviors.

SUMMARY

Recent experimental evidence has invigorated the discussion of a role for cholesterol in prostate cancer. The identification of cholesterol as a critical component in signal transduction events in prostate cancer cells has not only provided new mechanistic insights but also opened up new avenues for chemotherapeutic intervention.

Atp8b1 deficiency in mice reduces resistance of the canalicular membrane to hydrophobic bile salts and impairs bile salt transport

Progressive familial intrahepatic cholestasis type 1 (PFIC1, Byler disease, OMIM 211600) is a severe inherited liver disease caused by mutations in ATP8B1. ATP8B1 is a member of the type 4 subfamily of P-type ATPases, which are phospholipid flippases. PFIC1 patients generally develop end-stage liver disease before the second decade of life. The disease is characterized by impaired biliary bile salt excretion, but the mechanism whereby impaired ATP8B1 function results in cholestasis is unclear. In a mouse model for PFIC1, we observed decreased resistance of the hepatocanalicular membrane to hydrophobic bile salts as evidenced by enhanced biliary recovery of phosphatidylserine, cholesterol, and ectoenzymes. In liver specimens from PFIC1 patients, but not in those from control subjects, ectoenzyme expression at the canalicular membrane was markedly deficient. In isolated mouse livers Atp8b1 deficiency impaired the transport of hydrophobic bile salts into bile. In conclusion, our study shows that Atp8b1 deficiency causes loss of canalicular phospholipid membrane asymmetry that in turn renders the canalicular membrane less resistant toward hydrophobic bile salts. The loss of phospholipid asymmetry may subsequently impair bile salt transport and cause cholestasis.

Diseases of intramembranous lipid transport

The maintenance of transbilayer distribution of phospholipids is crucial for proper cell function. Intramembrane transport of lipids is mediated by three activities termed floppases, flippases, and scramblases. Members of the ATP-binding cassette transporter family and P-type ATPase superfamily have been implicated in the translocation of lipids. The importance of these activities is exemplified by several severe human inherited disorders that are caused by defects in intramembranous transport of lipids. In order to elucidate the molecular mechanisms that underlie these disorders, the combination of in vivo, biochemical, and structural analyses on intramembrane transporters is crucial.

Coarse-Grained Transmembrane Proteins: Hydrophobic Matching, Aggregation, and Their Effect on Fusion

Molecular transport between organelles is predominantly governed by vesicle fission and fusion. Unlike experimental vesicles, the fused vesicles in molecular dynamics simulations do not become spherical readily, because the lipid and water distribution is inappropriate for the fused state and spontaneous amendment is slow. Here, we study the hypothesis that enhanced transport across the membrane of water, lipids, or both is required to produce spherical vesicles. This is done by adding several kinds of model proteins to fusing vesicles. The results show that equilibration of both water and lipid content is a requirement for spherical vesicles. In addition, the effect of these transmembrane proteins is studied in bilayers and vesicles, including investigations into hydrophobic matching and aggregation. Our simulations show that the level of aggregation does not only depend on hydrophobic mismatch, but also on protein shape. Additionally, one of the proteins promotes fusion by inducing pore formation. Incorporation of these proteins allows even flat membranes to fuse spontaneously. Moreover, we encountered a novel spontaneous vesicle enlargement mechanism we call the engulfing lobe, which may explain how lipids added to a vesicle solution are quickly incorporated into the inner monolayer.

Proteins involved in lipid translocation in eukaryotic cells

Since the first discovery of ATP-dependent translocation of lipids in the human erythrocyte membrane in 1984, there has been much evidence of the existence of various ATPases translocating lipids in eukaryotic cell membranes. They include P-type ATPases involved in inwards lipid transport from the exoplasmic leaflet to the cytosolic leaflet and ABC proteins involved in outwards transport. There are also ATP-independent proteins that catalyze the passage of lipids in both directions. Five P-type ATPase involved in lipid transport have been genetically characterized in yeast cells, suggesting a pool of several proteins with partially redundant activities responsible for the regulation of lipid asymmetry. However, expression and purification of individual yeast proteins is still insufficient to allow reconstitution experiments in liposomes. In this review, we want to give an overview over current investigation efforts about the identification and purification of proteins that may be involved in lipid translocation.

FXR: a target for cholestatic syndromes?

The nuclear farnesoid X receptor (FXR) plays a pivotal role in maintaining bile acid homeostasis by regulating key genes involved in bile acid synthesis, metabolism and transport, including CYP7A1, UGT2B4, BSEP, MDR3, MRP2, ASBT, I-BABP, NTCP and OSTalpha-OSTbeta in humans. Altered expression or malfunction of these genes has been described in patients with cholestatic liver diseases. This review examines the rationale for the use of FXR ligand therapy in various cholestatic liver disorders and includes potential concerns.

Chondrocytes utilize a cholesterol-dependent lipid translocator to externalize phosphatidylserine

During endochondral ossification, growth plate chondrocytes release plasma membrane (PM) derived matrix vesicles (MV), which are the site of initial hydroxyapatite crystal formation. MV constituents which facilitate the mineralization process include the integral membrane ectoenzymes alkaline phosphatase (ALPase) and nucleotide pyrophosphatase phosphodiesterase (NPP1/PC-1), along with a phosphatidylserine- (PS-) rich membrane surface that binds annexins and calcium, resulting in enhanced calcium entry into MV. In this study, we determined that chick growth plate MV were highly enriched in membrane raft microdomains containing high levels of cholesterol, glycophosphatidylinositol- (GPI-) anchored ALPase, and phosphatidylserine (PS) localized to the external leaflet of the bilayer. To determine how such membrane microdomains arise during chondrocyte maturation, we explored the role of PM cholesterol-dependent lipid assemblies in regulating the activities of lipid translocators involved in the externalization of PS. We first isolated and determined the composition of detergent-resistant membranes (DRMs) from chondrocyte PM. DRMs isolated from chondrocyte PM were enhanced in ganglioside 1 (GM1) and cholesterol as well as GPI-anchored ALPase. Furthermore, these membrane domains were enriched in PS (localized to the external leaflet of the bilayer) and had significantly higher ALPase activity than non-cholesterol-enriched domains. To understand the role of cholesterol-dependent lipid assemblies in the externalization of PS, we measured the activities of two lipid transporters involved in PS externalization, aminophospholipid translocase (APLT) and phospholipid scramblase (PLSCR1), during maturation of a murine chondrocytic cell line, N1511. In this report, we provide the first evidence that maturing chondrocytes express PLSCR1 and have scramblase activity. We propose that redistribution of PS is dependent on an increase in phospholipid scramblase activity and a decrease in APLT activity. Lastly, we show that translocator activity is most likely to be modulated by membrane cholesterol levels through a membrane raft microdomain.

Function and pathophysiological importance of ABCB4 (MDR3 P-glycoprotein)

Like several other ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters, ABCB4 is a lipid translocator. It translocates phosphatidylcholine (PC) from the inner to the outer leaflet of the canalicular membrane of the hepatocyte. Its function is quite crucial as evidenced by a severe liver disease, progressive familial intrahepatic cholestasis type 3, which develops in persons with ABCB4 deficiency. Translocation of PC makes the phospholipid available for extraction into the canalicular lumen by bile salts. The primary function of biliary phospholipid excretion is to protect the membranes of cells facing the biliary tree against these bile salts: the uptake of PC in bile salt micelles reduces the detergent activity of these micelles. In this review, we will discuss the functional aspects of ABCB4 and the regulation of its expression. Furthermore, we will describe the clinical and biochemical consequences of complete and partial deficiency of ABCB4 function.

Lipid Specific Activation of the Murine P4-ATPase Atp8a1 (ATPase II)†

The asymmetric transbilayer distribution of phosphatidylserine (PS) in the mammalian plasma membrane and secretory vesicles is maintained, in part, by an ATP-dependent transporter. This aminophospholipid "flippase" selectively transports PS to the cytosolic leaflet of the bilayer and is sensitive to vanadate, Ca(2+), and modification by sulfhydryl reagents. Although the flippase has not been positively identified, a subfamily of P-type ATPases has been proposed to function as transporters of amphipaths, including PS and other phospholipids. A candidate PS flippase ATP8A1 (ATPase II), originally isolated from bovine secretory vesicles, is a member of this subfamily based on sequence homology to the founding member of the subfamily, the yeast protein Drs2, which has been linked to ribosomal assembly, the formation of Golgi-coated vesicles, and the maintenance of PS asymmetry. To determine if ATP8A1 has biochemical characteristics consistent with a PS flippase, a murine homologue of this enzyme was expressed in insect cells and purified. The purified Atp8a1 is inactive in detergent micelles or in micelles containing phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidic acid, or phosphatidylinositol, is minimally activated by phosphatidylglycerol or phosphatidylethanolamine (PE), and is maximally activated by PS. The selectivity for PS is dependent upon multiple elements of the lipid structure. Similar to the plasma membrane PS transporter, Atp8a1 is activated only by the naturally occurring sn-1,2-glycerol isomer of PS and not the sn-2,3-glycerol stereoisomer. Both flippase and Atp8a1 activities are insensitive to the stereochemistry of the serine headgroup. Most modifications of the PS headgroup structure decrease recognition by the plasma membrane PS flippase. Activation of Atp8a1 is also reduced by these modifications; phosphatidylserine-O-methyl ester, lysophosphatidylserine, glycerophosphoserine, and phosphoserine, which are not transported by the plasma membrane flippase, do not activate Atp8a1. Weakly translocated lipids (PE, phosphatidylhydroxypropionate, and phosphatidylhomoserine) are also weak Atp8a1 activators. However, N-methyl-phosphatidylserine, which is transported by the plasma membrane flippase at a rate equivalent to PS, is incapable of activating Atp8a1 activity. These results indicate that the ATPase activity of the secretory granule Atp8a1 is activated by phospholipids binding to a specific site whose properties (PS selectivity, dependence upon glycerol but not serine, stereochemistry, and vanadate sensitivity) are similar to, but distinct from, the properties of the substrate binding site of the plasma membrane flippase.

Intracellular trafficking of nonviral vectors

Nonviral vectors continue to be attractive alternatives to viruses due to their low toxicity and immunogenicity, lack of pathogenicity, and ease of pharmacologic production. However, nonviral vectors also continue to suffer from relatively low levels of gene transfer compared to viruses, thus the drive to improve these vectors continues. Many studies on vector-cell interactions have reported that nonviral vectors bind and enter cells efficiently, but yield low gene expression, thus directing our attention to the intracellular trafficking of these vectors to understand where the obstacles occur. Here, we will review nonviral vector trafficking pathways, which will be considered here as the steps from cell binding to nuclear delivery. Studies on the intracellular trafficking of nonviral vectors has given us valuable insights into the barriers these vectors must overcome to mediate efficient gene transfer. Importantly, we will highlight the different approaches used by researchers to overcome certain trafficking barriers to gene transfer, many of which incorporate components from biological systems that have naturally evolved the capacity to overcome such obstacles. The tools used to study trafficking pathways will also be discussed.

A Rostrocaudal Muscular Dystrophy Caused by a Defect in Choline Kinase Beta, the First Enzyme in Phosphatidylcholine Biosynthesis

Muscular dystrophies include a diverse group of genetically heterogeneous disorders that together affect 1 in 2000 births worldwide. The diseases are characterized by progressive muscle weakness and wasting that lead to severe disability and often premature death. Rostrocaudal muscular dystrophy (rmd) is a new recessive mouse mutation that causes a rapidly progressive muscular dystrophy and a neonatal forelimb bone deformity. The rmd mutation is a 1.6-kb intragenic deletion within the choline kinase beta (Chkb) gene, resulting in a complete loss of CHKB protein and enzymatic activity. CHKB is one of two mammalian choline kinase (CHK) enzymes (alpha and beta) that catalyze the phosphorylation of choline to phosphocholine in the biosynthesis of the major membrane phospholipid phosphatidylcholine. While mutant rmd mice show a dramatic decrease of CHK activity in all tissues, the dystrophy is only evident in skeletal muscle tissues in an unusual rostral-to-caudal gradient. Minor membrane disruption similar to dysferlinopathies suggest that membrane fusion defects may underlie this dystrophy, because severe membrane disruptions are not evident as determined by creatine kinase levels, Evans Blue infiltration, and unaltered levels of proteins in the dystrophin-glycoprotein complex. The rmd mutant mouse offers the first demonstration of a defect in a phospholipid biosynthetic enzyme causing muscular dystrophy, representing a unique model for understanding mechanisms of muscle degeneration.

Asymmetric Distribution of Phospholipids in Biomembranes

In eukaryotic cells, the biological membrane is characterized by a non-uniform distribution of membrane lipids, vertically as well as laterally. The paradigm for the vertical non-random distribution is the plasma membrane, where phosphatidylcholine (PC), sphingomyelin (SM), and glycosphingolipids are primarily located on the exoplasmic leaflet, while aminophospholipids, including phosphatidylserine (PS) and phosphatidylethanolamine (PE), are generally enriched in the cytoplasmic leaflet. Other minor phospholipids, such as phosphatidic acid and phosphatidylinositol (PI), are also enriched on the cytoplasmic face. Such asymmetrical distribution is related to each lipid regulating various biological events through interaction with other molecules. The clarification of the regulatory mechanism of the distribution and movement of membrane lipids is crucial to understanding the physiological roles of lipids. Here we focus on PS, which has been reported to be involved in apoptosis, blood coagulation and other biological phenomena, and summarize the present understanding of the dynamics of this phospholipid, including biosynthesis, metabolism, transport, and transbilayer movement. We also refer to diseases that have been reported to be related to phospholipid asymmetry.

Ion channel formation by Alzheimer's disease amyloid beta-peptide (Abeta40) in unilamellar liposomes is determined by anionic phospholipids

Incorporation of Alzheimer's disease amyloid beta-proteins (AbetaPs) across natural and artificial bilayer membranes leads to the formation of cation-selective channels. To study the peptide-membrane interactions involved in channel formation, we used cation reporter dyes to measure AbetaP-induced influx of Na+, Ca2+, and K+ into liposomes formed from phosphatidylserine (PS), phosphatidylinositol (PI) and phosphatidylcholine (PC). We found that Abeta40, but not Abeta40-1 or Abeta28, caused a dose-dependent increase in the concentration of each cation in the lumen of liposomes formed from the acidic phospholipids PS and PI. The Abeta40-induced changes in cation concentration, which we attribute to ion entry through Abeta40 channels, were not observed when using liposomes formed from the neutral phospholipid PC. Using mixtures of phospholipids, the magnitude of the AbetaP40-induced ion entry increased with the acidic phospholipid content of the liposomes, with entry being observed with as little as 5% PS or PI. Thus, while negatively charged phospholipids are required for formation of cation-permeable channels by Abeta40, a small amount is sufficient to support the process. These results have implications for the mechanisms of AbetaP cytotoxicity, suggesting that even a small amount of externalized negative charge could render cells susceptible to the deleterious effects of unregulated ion influx through AbetaP channels.

Lipid asymmetry in DLPC/DSPC-supported lipid bilayers: a combined AFM and fluorescence microscopy study

A fundamental attribute of cell membranes is transmembrane asymmetry, specifically the formation of ordered phase domains in one leaflet that are compositionally different from the opposing leaflet of the bilayer. Using model membrane systems, many previous studies have demonstrated the formation of ordered phase domains that display complete transmembrane symmetry; but there have been few reports on the more biologically relevant asymmetric membrane structures. Here we report on a combined atomic force microscopy and fluorescence microscopy study whereby we observe three different states of transmembrane symmetry in phase-separated supported lipid bilayers formed by vesicle fusion. We find that if the leaflets differ in gel-phase area fraction, then the smaller domains in one leaflet are in registry with the larger domains in the other leaflet and the system is dynamic. In a presumed lipid flip-flop process similar to Ostwald ripening, the smaller domains in one leaflet erode away whereas the large domains in the other leaflet grow until complete compositional asymmetry is reached and remains stable. We have quantified this evolution and determined that the lipid flip-flop event happens most frequently at the interface between symmetric and asymmetric DSPC domains. If both leaflets have identical area fraction of gel-phase, gel-phase domains are in registry and are static in comparison to the first state. The stability of these three DSPC domain distributions, the degree of registry observed, and the domain immobility have biological significance with regards to maintenance of lipid asymmetry in living cell membranes, communication between inner leaflet and outer leaflet, membrane adhesion, and raft mobility.

ABC transporters as multidrug resistance mechanisms and the development of chemosensitizers for their reversal

One of the major problems related with anticancer chemotherapy is resistance against anticancer drugs. The ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters are a family of transporter proteins that are responsible for drug resistance and a low bioavailability of drugs by pumping a variety of drugs out cells at the expense of ATP hydrolysis. One strategy for reversal of the resistance of tumor cells expressing ABC transporters is combined use of anticancer drugs with chemosensitizers. In this review, the physiological functions and structures of ABC transporters, and the development of chemosensitizers are described focusing on well-known proteins including P-glycoprotein, multidrug resistance associated protein, and breast cancer resistance protein.

Translocation of Ethanolamine Phosphoglyceride is Required for Initiation of Apoptotic Death in OLN-93 Oligodendroglial Cells

The possible interplay between extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase (ERK) activation and ethanolamine phosphoglycerides (PG) membrane bilayer translocation following oxidative stress (OS) (0.5 mM H2O2/0.05 mM Fe2+), was examined in oligodendroglia, OLN93, cells with altered plasma membrane PG composition. Cells supplemented with 50 microM docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, 22:6n3) to increase the number of potential double bond targets for OS in ethanolamine-PG (EPG) were compared to cells with diminished content of EPG, attained by the addition of 0.5 mM N,N-dimethylethanolamine (dEa). After 30 min OS, EPG translocation accompanied by sustained ERK activation and nuclear translocation culminating in apoptosis was found in DHA-supplemented cells in contrast to no EPG translocation, a brief ERK activation, but no nuclear translocation, and no cell death in DHA/dEa-supplemented cells. DHA/dEa-supplemented cells pretreated with the protein-tyrosine phosphatases inhibitor Na3VO4 followed by OS, although expressing a sustained ERK activation and nuclear translocation, failed to show apoptosis and lacked EPG translocation. In DHA-supplemented cells U0126, a MEK inhibitor, prevented ERK activation and EPG translocation and protected from cell death. These findings most likely indicate that ERK activation is an indispensable component for the signaling cascades leading to EPG translocation but only activation of the latter is leading to OS-induced apoptotic cell death.

Assay for the transbilayer movement of polyisoprenoid-linked saccharides based on the transport of water-soluble analogues

Flippases are a class of membrane proteins that are proposed to facilitate the transbilayer movement of amphipathic polar lipids that are required for membrane biogenesis and the assembly of many diverse complex glycoconjugates in eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells. Despite their crucial roles in membrane biology, very little is known about their structures and the precise mechanism(s) by which they overcome the biophysical barriers of the hydrophobic core, and allow polar head groups to traverse membrane bilayers. This chapter presents methods based on the transport of water-soluble analogues that can be applied to investigate membrane proteins mediating the transverse diffusion of polyisoprenoid-linked glycolipid intermediates involved in the biosynthesis of N-linked glycoproteins, glycosylphosphatidylinositol anchors and bacterial polysaccharides.

The type 4 subfamily of P-type ATPases, putative aminophospholipid translocases with a role in human disease

The maintenance of phospholipid asymmetry in membrane bilayers is a paradigm in cell biology. However, the mechanisms and proteins involved in phospholipid translocation are still poorly understood. Members of the type 4 subfamily of P-type ATPases have been implicated in the translocation of phospholipids from the outer to the inner leaflet of membrane bilayers. In humans, several inherited disorders have been identified which are associated with loci harboring type 4 P-type ATPase genes. Up to now, one inherited disorder, Byler disease or progressive familial intrahepatic cholestasis type 1 (PFIC1), has been directly linked to mutations in a type 4 P-type ATPase gene. How the absence of an aminophospholipid translocase activity relates to this severe disease is, however, still unclear. Studies in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae have recently identified important roles for type 4 P-type ATPases in intracellular membrane- and protein-trafficking events. These processes require an (amino)phospholipid translocase activity to initiate budding or fusion of membrane vesicles from or with other membranes. The studies in yeast have greatly contributed to our cell biological insight in membrane dynamics and intracellular-trafficking events; if this knowledge can be translated to mammalian cells and organs, it will help to elucidate the molecular mechanisms which underlie severe inherited human diseases such as Byler disease.

Adrenocorticotropin evokes transient elevations in intracellular free calcium ([Ca2+]i) and increases basal [Ca2+]i in resting chondrocytes through a phospholipase C-dependent mechanism

Both clinical and in vitro evidence points to the involvement of the melanocortin peptide, ACTH, in the terminal differentiation of chondrocytes. Terminal differentiation along the endochondral pathway is responsible for linear growth, but also plays a role in osteoarthritic cartilage degeneration. Chondrocyte terminal differentiation is associated with an incremental increase in chondrocyte basal intracellular free calcium ([Ca(2+)](i)), and ACTH agonism of melanocortin receptors is known to mobilize [Ca(2+)](i.) Using differentiated resting chondrocytes highly expressing type II collagen and aggrecan, we examined the influence of both ACTH and dexamethasone treatment on matrix gene transcription and [Ca(2+)](i). Resting chondrocytes treated concurrently with dexamethasone and ACTH expressed matrix gene transcripts in a pattern consistent with that of rapid terminal differentiation. Using the fluorescent Ca(2+) indicator, fura-2, we determined that ACTH evokes transient increases in [Ca(2+)](i) and elevates basal Ca(2+) levels in resting chondrocytes. The transient increases were initiated intracellularly, were abrogated by the phospholipase C-specific inhibitor, U73122, and were partly attenuated by myo-inositol 1,4,5-triphosphate receptor inhibition via 10 mm caffeine. The initial intracellular release also resulted in store-operated calcium entry, presumably through store-operated channels. Dexamethasone priming increased both the initial ACTH-evoked [Ca(2+)](i) release and the subsequent store-operated calcium entry. These data demonstrate roles for ACTH and glucocorticoid in the regulation of chondrocyte terminal differentiation. Because the actions of ACTH are mediated through known G protein-coupled receptors, the melanocortin receptors, these data may provide a new therapeutic target in the treatment of growth deficiencies and cartilage degeneration.

PilT is required for PI(3,4,5)P3-mediated crosstalk between Neisseria gonorrhoeae and epithelial cells

The retractile type IV pilus participates in a number of fundamental bacterial processes, including motility, DNA transformation, fruiting body formation and attachment to host cells. Retraction of the N. gonorrhoeae type IV pilus requires a functional pilT. Retraction generates substantial force on its substrate (> 100 pN per retraction event), and it has been speculated that epithelial cells sense and respond to these forces during infection. We provide evidence that piliated, Opa non-expressing Neisseria gonorrhoeae activates the stress-responsive PI-3 kinase/Akt (PKB) pathway in human epithelial cells, and activation is enhanced by a functional pilT. PI-3 kinase inhibitors wortmannin and LY294002 reduce cell entry by 81% and 50%, respectively, illustrating the importance of this cascade in bacterial invasion. PI-3 kinase and its direct downstream effectors [PI(3,4,5)P3] and Akt are concentrated in the cell cortex beneath adherent bacteria, particularly at the periphery of the bacterial microcolonies. Furthermore, [PI(3,4,5)P3] is translocated to the outer leaflet of the plasma membrane. Finally, we show that [PI(3,4,5)P3] stimulates microcolony formation and upregulates pilT expression in vitro. We conclude that N. gonorrhoeae activation of PI-3 kinase triggers the host cell to produce a lipid second messenger that influences bacterial behaviour.

Protection against amyloid beta-peptide (1–42)-induced loss of phospholipid asymmetry in synaptosomal membranes by tricyclodecan-9-xanthogenate (D609) and ferulic acid ethyl ester: Implications for Alzheimer's disease

Amyloid-beta (1-42) [Abeta (1-42)] deposition in the brain is a hallmark of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and has been shown to induce apoptosis and disrupt cellular ion homeostasis. Abeta (1-42) induces membrane lipid peroxidation, and 4-hydroxynonenal (HNE) and 2-propenal (acrolein) are the two reactive products of lipid peroxidation, which structurally modify proteins by covalent interaction and inhibit enzyme function. Phosphatidylserine (PS), an aminophospholipid, is sequestered in the inner leaflet of the plasma membrane in nonstimulated cells. An early signal of synaptosomal apoptosis is the loss of phospholipid asymmetry and the appearance of phosphatidylserine in the outer leaflet of the membrane. The ATP-requiring enzyme, flippase, maintains phospholipid asymmetry of PS. Here, we have investigated the inactivation of the transmembrane enzyme aminophospholipid-translocase (or flippase) by Abeta (1-42). Flippase activity depends on a critical cysteine residue, a putative site of covalent modification by the Abeta (1-42)-induced lipid peroxidation products, HNE or acrolein. The present study is aimed to investigate the protective effects of tricyclodecan-9-xanthogenate (D609) and ferulic acid ethyl ester (FAEE) on Abeta (1-42) induced modulation in phospholipid asymmetry in the synaptosomal membranes. Pretreatment of synaptosomes with D609 and FAEE significantly protected Abeta (1-42)-induced loss of phospholipid asymmetry in synaptosomal membranes. Our results suggest that D609 and FAEE exert protective effects against Abeta (1-42) induced apoptosis. The increase in intracellular Ca(2+) might not be the sole cause for the loss of flippase activity. Rather, other mechanisms that could modulate the function of flippase might be important in the modulation of phospholipid asymmetry. The results of this study are discussed with relevance to neuronal loss in the AD brain.

A comparison of the gas phase acidities of phospholipid headgroups: experimental and computational studies

Proton-bound dimers consisting of two glycerophospholipids with different headgroups were prepared using negative ion electrospray ionization and dissociated in a triple quadrupole mass spectrometer. Analysis of the tandem mass spectra of the dimers using the kinetic method provides, for the first time, an order of acidity for the phospholipid classes in the gas phase of PE < PA << PG < PS < PI. Hybrid density functional calculations on model phospholipids were used to predict the absolute deprotonation enthalpies of the phospholipid classes from isodesmic proton transfer reactions with phosphoric acid. The computational data largely support the experimental acidity trend, with the exception of the relative acidity ranking of the two most acidic phospholipid species. Possible causes of the discrepancy between experiment and theory are discussed and the experimental trend is recommended. The sequence of gas phase acidities for the phospholipid headgroups is found to (1) have little correlation with the relative ionization efficiencies of the phospholipid classes observed in the negative ion electrospray process, and (2) correlate well with fragmentation trends observed upon collisional activation of phospholipid [M - H](-) anions.

Local exposure of phosphatidylethanolamine on the yeast plasma membrane is implicated in cell polarity

Cell surface phosphatidylethanolamine (PE) of the yeast cell was probed by biotinylated Ro09-0198 (Bio-Ro), which specifically binds to PE and was visualized with fluorescein-labelled streptavidin. In Saccharomyces cerevisiae, the signals were observed at the presumptive bud site, the emerging small bud cortex, the bud neck of the late mitotic large-budded cells and the tip of the mating projection. In Schizosaccharomyces pombe, the signals were observed at one end or both ends of mono-nucleated cells and the division plane of the late mitotic cells. These sites were polarized ends in the yeast cells, implying that PE is exposed on the cell surface at cellular polarized ends. Treatment of S. cerevisiae cells with Ro09-0198 resulted in aberrant F-actin accumulation at the above sites, implying that limited surface exposure of PE is involved in the polarized organization of the actin cytoskeleton. Furthermore, S. cerevisiae ros3, dnf1 and dnf2 null mutants, which were known to be defective in the internalization of fluorescence-labelled PE, as well as the combinatorial mutants, were stained with Bio-Ro at the enlarging bud cortex, in addition to the Bio-Ro-staining sites of wild-type cells, suggesting that Ros3p, Dnf1p and Dnf2p are involved in the retrieval of exposed PE at the bud cortex.

Lipid traffic: floppy drives and a superhighway

Understanding how membrane lipids achieve their non-random distribution in cells is a key challenge in cell biology at present. In addition to being sorted into vesicles that can cross distances of up to one metre, there are other mechanisms that mediate the transport of lipids within a range of a few nanometres. These include transbilayer flip-flop mechanisms and transfer across narrow gaps between the endoplasmic reticulum and other organelles, with the endoplasmic reticulum functioning as a superhighway along which lipids can rapidly diffuse.

ABCA1 gene deletion protects against cerebral malaria: potential pathogenic role of microparticles in neuropathology

The ATP-binding cassette transporter A1 (ABCA1) modulates the transbilayer distribution of phosphatidylserine at the outer leaflet of the plasma membrane. This external exposure of phosphatidylserine is a hallmark of microparticle production and is impaired in ABCA1(-/-) mice. In this study, we report about the complete resistance to cerebral malaria of these mice. On analysis of histological and systemic parameters we evidenced an impairment of cellular responses to Plasmodium berghei ANKA infection in ABCA1(-/-) mice, as shown by lower plasma tumor necrosis factor levels, a weaker up-regulation of endothelial adhesion molecules in brain microvessels, a reduced leukocyte sequestration, as well as an ablated platelet accumulation. Besides, the number and the procoagulant activity of microparticles were dramatically reduced in the plasma of ABCA1(-/-) compared to ABCA1(+/+) mice. Moreover, microparticles derived from Plasmodium berghei ANKA-infected ABCA1(+/+) mice induced a significant increase of tumor necrosis factor release by noninfected macrophages. In ABCA1(-/-) mice platelet and macrophage responses to vesiculation agonists were ablated and reduced, respectively. Altogether, by pointing out the ABCA1 transporter as a major element controlling cerebral malaria susceptibility, these data provide a novel insight into its pathophysiological mechanisms and are consistent with a pathogenic role of microparticles in this neurological syndrome.

Peptide–lipid interactions: insights and perspectives

As the number of membrane proteins in the Protein Data Bank increases, efforts to understand how they interact with their natural environment are increasing in importance. A number of membrane proteins crystallise with lipid molecules implicitly bound at discrete locations that are consistent with the transmembrane regions of the protein. Bioinformatics studies also point to the specific interactions of some amino acids with membrane lipids. The results of experiments using model systems are revealing how these interactions contribute to the stability of both the protein and the membrane in which it is embedded. From a different perspective, the processes involved in the binding of peptides to membrane surfaces to produce a variety of effects are being understood in ever-increasing detail. This review describes current research efforts and thinking in this area.

Function of prokaryotic and eukaryotic ABC proteins in lipid transport

ATP binding cassette (ABC) proteins of both eukaryotic and prokaryotic origins are implicated in the transport of lipids. In humans, members of the ABC protein families A, B, C, D and G are mutated in a number of lipid transport and metabolism disorders, such as Tangier disease, Stargardt syndrome, progressive familial intrahepatic cholestasis, pseudoxanthoma elasticum, adrenoleukodystrophy or sitosterolemia. Studies employing transfection, overexpression, reconstitution, deletion and inhibition indicate the transbilayer transport of endogenous lipids and their analogs by some of these proteins, modulating lipid transbilayer asymmetry. Other proteins appear to be involved in the exposure of specific lipids on the exoplasmic leaflet, allowing their uptake by acceptors and further transport to specific sites. Additionally, lipid transport by ABC proteins is currently being studied in non-human eukaryotes, e.g. in sea urchin, trypanosomatides, arabidopsis and yeast, as well as in prokaryotes such as Escherichia coli and Lactococcus lactis. Here, we review current information about the (putative) role of both pro- and eukaryotic ABC proteins in the various phenomena associated with lipid transport. Besides providing a better understanding of phenomena like lipid metabolism, circulation, multidrug resistance, hormonal processes, fertilization, vision and signalling, studies on pro- and eukaryotic ABC proteins might eventually enable us to put a name on some of the proteins mediating transbilayer lipid transport in various membranes of cells and organelles. It must be emphasized, however, that there are still many uncertainties concerning the functions and mechanisms of ABC proteins interacting with lipids. In particular, further purification and reconstitution experiments with an unambiguous role of ATP hydrolysis are needed to demonstrate a clear involvement of ABC proteins in lipid transbilayer asymmetry.

Oxidative lipidomics of apoptosis: redox catalytic interactions of cytochrome c with cardiolipin and phosphatidylserine

The primary life-supporting function of cytochrome c (cyt c) is control of cellular energetic metabolism as a mobile shuttle in the electron transport chain of mitochondria. Recently, cyt c's equally important life-terminating function as a trigger and regulator of apoptosis was identified. This dreadful role is realized through the relocalization of mitochondrial cyt c to the cytoplasm where it interacts with Apaf-1 in forming apoptosomes and mediating caspase-9 activation. Although the presence of heme moiety of cyt c is essential for the latter function, cyt c's redox catalytic features are not required. Lately, two other essential functions of cyt c in apoptosis, that may rely heavily on its redox activity have been suggested. Both functions are directed toward oxidation of two negatively charged phospholipids, cardiolipin (CL) in the mitochondria and phosphatidylserine (PS) in the plasma membrane. In both cases, oxidized phospholipids seem to be essential for the transduction of two distinctive apoptotic signals: one is participation of oxidized CL in the formation of the mitochondrial permeability transition pore that facilitates release of cyt c into the cytosol and the other is the contribution of oxidized PS to the externalization and recognition of PS (and possibly oxidized PS) on the cell surface by specialized receptors of phagocytes. In this review, we present a new concept that cyt c actuates both of these oxidative roles through a uniform mechanism: its specific interactions with each of these phospholipids result in the conversion and activation of cyt c, transforming it from an innocuous electron transporter into a calamitous peroxidase capable of oxidizing the activating phospholipids. We also show that this new concept is compatible with a leading role for reactive oxygen species in the execution of the apoptotic program, with cyt c as the main executioner.

Oxidation of phosphatidylserine: a mechanism for plasma membrane phospholipid scrambling during apoptosis?

Selective oxidation of phosphatidylserine (PS) during apoptosis precedes its externalization in plasma membrane and is essential for the engulfment of apoptotic cells. To experimentally test whether PS oxidation stimulates its externalization via its effects on aminophospholipid translocase (APT) or by enhanced PS scrambling, action of oxidized PS (PSox) was studied using leukemia HL-60 cells and lymphoma Raji cells. Both PS and PSox were equally well recognized by APT. PSox did not inhibit APT. Rate of transmembrane PS diffusion was fourfold higher in cells with integrated PSox than with PS. Thus, PSox acts as a "non-enzymatic scramblase" likely contributing to PS externalization.

Flippases and vesicle-mediated protein transport

The best-understood mechanisms for generating transport vesicles in the secretory and endocytic pathways involve the localized assembly of cytosolic coat proteins such as clathrin, coat protein complex (COP)I and COPII onto membranes. These coat proteins can deform membranes by themselves, but accessory proteins might help to generate the tight curvature needed to form a vesicle. Enzymes that pump phospholipid from one leaflet of the bilayer to the other (flippases) can deform membranes by creating an imbalance in the phospholipid number between the two leaflets. Recent studies describe a requirement for the yeast Drs2p family of P-type ATPases in both phospholipid translocation and protein transport in the secretory and endocytic pathways. This indicates that flippases work with coat proteins to form vesicles.

Characterization of a quasicrystalline phase in codispersions of phosphatidylethanolamine and glucocerebroside

Synchrotron x-ray diffraction, differential scanning calorimetry, and electron spin resonance spectroscopy have been employed to characterize a quasicrystalline phase formed in aqueous dispersions of binary mixtures of glucocerebroside and palmitoyloleoylphosphatidylethanolamine. Small- and wide-angle x-ray scattering intensity patterns were recorded during temperature scans between 20 degrees and 90 degrees C from mixtures of composition 2, 5, 10, 20, 30, and 40 mol glucocerebroside per 100 mol phospholipid. The quasicrystalline phase was characterized by a broad lamellar d-spacing of 6.06 nm at 40 degrees C and a broad wide-angle x-ray scattering band centered at approximately 0.438 nm, close to the gel phase centered at approximately 0.425 nm and distinct from a broad peak centered at 0.457 nm observed for a liquid-crystal phase at 80 degrees C. The quasicrystalline phase coexisted with gel and fluid phase of the pure phospholipid. An analysis of the small-angle x-ray scattering intensity profiles indicated a stoichiometry of one glucosphingolipid per two phospholipid molecules in the complex. Structural transitions monitored in cooling scans by synchrotron x-ray diffraction indicated that a cubic phase transforms initially into a lamellar gel. Thermal studies showed that the gel phase subsequently relaxes into the quasicrystalline phase in an exothermic transition. Electron spin resonance spectroscopy using spin labels located at positions 7, 12, and 16 carbons of phospholipid hydrocarbon chains indicated that order and motional constraints at the 7 and 12 positions were indistinguishable between gel and quasicrystalline phases but there was a significant decrease in order and increase in rate of motion at the 16 position on transformation to the quasicrystalline phase. The results are interpreted as an arrangement of polar groups of the complex in a crystalline array and a quasicrystalline packing of the hydrocarbon chains predicated by packing problems in the bilayer core requiring disordering of the highly asymmetric chains. The possible involvement of quasicrystalline phases in formation of membrane rafts is considered.

Structure and fluctuations of charged phosphatidylserine bilayers in the absence of salt

Using x-ray diffraction and NMR spectroscopy, we present structural and material properties of phosphatidylserine (PS) bilayers that may account for the well documented implications of PS headgroups in cell activity. At 30 degrees C, the 18-carbon monounsaturated DOPS in the fluid state has a cross-sectional area of 65.3 A(2) which is remarkably smaller than the area 72.5 A(2) of the DOPC analog, despite the extra electrostatic repulsion expected for charged PS headgroups. Similarly, at 20 degrees C, the 14-carbon disaturated DMPS in the gel phase has an area of 40.8 A(2) vs. 48.1 A(2) for DMPC. This condensation of area suggests an extra attractive interaction, perhaps hydrogen bonding, between PS headgroups. Unlike zwitterionic lipids, stacks of PS bilayers swell indefinitely as water is added. Data obtained for osmotic pressure versus interbilayer water spacing for fluid phase DOPS are well fit by electrostatic interactions calculated for the Gouy-Chapman regime. It is shown that the electrostatic interactions completely dominate the fluctuational pressure. Nevertheless, the x-ray data definitively exhibit the effects of fluctuations in fluid phase DOPS. From our measurements of fluctuations, we obtain the product of the bilayer bending modulus K(C) and the smectic compression modulus B. At the same interbilayer separation, the interbilayer fluctuations are smaller in DOPS than for DOPC, showing that B and/or K(C) are larger. Complementing the x-ray data, (31)P-chemical shift anisotropy measured by NMR suggest that the DOPS headgroups are less sensitive to osmotic pressure than DOPC headgroups, which is consistent with a larger K(C) in DOPS. Quadrupolar splittings for D(2)O decay less rapidly with increasing water content for DOPS than for DOPC, indicating greater perturbation of interlamellar water and suggesting a greater interlamellar hydration force in DOPS. Our comparisons between bilayers of PS and PC lipids with the same chains and the same temperature enable us to focus on the effects of these headgroups on bilayer properties.

Adiposity, dyslipidemia, and insulin resistance in mice with targeted deletion of phospholipid scramblase 3 (PLSCR3)

The phospholipid scramblases (PLSCR1 to PLSCR4) are a structurally and functionally unique class of proteins, which are products of a tetrad of genes conserved from Caenorhabditis elegans to humans. The best characterized member of this family, PLSCR1, is implicated in the remodeling of the transbilayer distribution of plasma membrane phospholipids but is also required for normal signaling through select growth factor receptors. Mice with targeted deletion of PLSCR1 display perinatal granulocytopenia due to defective response of hematopoietic precursors to granulocyte colony-stimulating factor and stem cell factor. To gain insight into the biologic function of another member of the PLSCR family, we investigated mice with targeted deletion of PLSCR3, a protein that like PLSCR1 is expressed in many blood cells but which, by contrast to PLSCR1, is also highly expressed in fat and muscle. PLSCR3(-/-) mice at 2 months of age displayed aberrant accumulation of abdominal fat when maintained on standard rodent chow, which was accompanied by insulin resistance, glucose intolerance, and dyslipidemia. Primary adipocytes and cultured bone-marrow-derived macrophages from PLSCR3(-/-) mice were engorged with neutral lipid, and adipocytes displayed defective responses to exogenous insulin. Plasma of PLSCR3(-/-) mice was elevated in non-high-density lipoproteins, cholesterol, triglycerides, nonesterified fatty acids, and leptin, whereas adiponectin was low. These data suggest that the expression of PLSCR3 may be required for normal adipocyte and/or macrophage maturation or function and raise the possibility that deletions or mutations affecting the PLSCR3(-/-) gene locus may contribute to the risk for lipid-related disorders in humans.

Identification of Synthetic Phosphatidylserine Translocases from a Combinatorial Library Prepared by Directed Split-and-Pool Synthesis

Simple sulfonamide and amide derivatives of tris(2-aminoethyl)amine (Tren) are known to promote the translocation or flip-flop of phosphatidylcholine, but not phosphatidylserine, across bilayer membranes. This paper describes the synthesis of a 300-member, spatially encoded library of Tren derivatives with appended peptide--sulfonamide and peptide--urea arms. The library was synthesized using the Encore method with SynPhase lanterns as the solid support. A high-throughput assay was developed to screen individual members of the library for an ability to translocate a fluorescent NBD derivative of phosphatidylserine across vesicle membranes. Several lead compounds were identified, and one was synthesized independently to confirm its high phosphatidylserine translocation activity.

Modulation of phospholipid asymmetry in synaptosomal membranes by the lipid peroxidation products, 4-hydroxynonenal and acrolein: implications for Alzheimer's disease

Membrane lipid bilayer asymmetry is maintained by the ATP-dependent enzyme flippase. An early signal of synaptosomal apoptosis is the loss of phospholipid asymmetry and the appearance of phosphatidylserine (PS) in the outer leaflet of the membrane. Two highly reactive products of lipid peroxidation, 4-hydroxynonenal (HNE) and acrolein, both elevated in Alzheimer's disease (AD) brain, have been shown to induce apoptosis and disrupt cellular ion homeostasis. These reactive aldehydes can structurally modify proteins by covalent interaction and inhibit enzyme function. Phospholipid asymmetry of PS is maintained by the ATP-requiring enzyme flippase. We have investigated the inactivation of the transmembrane enzyme aminophospholipid-translocase (or flippase) by HNE and acrolein. Flippase activity depends on a critical cysteine residue, a possible site of covalent modification by HNE or acrolein. The present study demonstrates that these alkenals induce the appearance of PS on the outer bilayer lamellae and suggests that increases in intracellular Ca(2+) might not be the sole cause for loss of flippase activity. Rather, other mechanisms that could modulate the function of flippase might be important in phospholipid asymmetry disruption. These results are discussed with potential relevance to neuronal loss in Alzheimer's disease brain.

Transactivator of transcription fusion protein transduction causes membrane inversion

The transactivator of transcription (TAT) protein transduction domain is an 11-amino acid positively charged peptide that has been shown to pull diverse molecules across cell membranes in vitro and in vivo. Fusion proteins constructed with TAT rapidly enter and exit cells and have been shown to cross intracellular membranes as well. Electrostatic interactions between TAT and the cell membrane have been implicated as a part of the mechanism of transduction. Here, we report that TAT transduction causes membrane phospholipid rearrangement as evidenced by detection of phosphatidylserine on the outer surface of the cell membrane. Furthermore, these rearrangements can be blocked by positively charged polylysine, further implicating electrostatic interactions as a part of the mechanism. Neither apoptosis nor necrosis is induced in these cells after exposure to TAT. We conclude that the process of TAT.GFP transduction causes phosphatidylserine to translocate from the inner to the outer leaflet of the plasma membrane. These results provide insight into the mechanism of TAT protein transduction domain transduction.

Phospholipid Flip-Flop and Phospholipid Scramblase 1 (PLSCR1) Co-localize to Uropod Rafts in Formylated Met-Leu-Phe-stimulated Neutrophils

Movement of phosphatidylserine (PS) to the plasma membrane outer leaflet is a nearly universal marker of apoptosis and occurs during activation of many cells. Neutrophils stimulated with the chemotactic peptide formylated Met-Leu-Phe (fMLP) demonstrated transient PS exposure. Stimulated outward movement of PS was accompanied by enhanced inward movement of several phosphorylcholine lipid probes and was associated with enhanced FM 1-43 staining indicative of phospholipid packing changes. Unlike apoptosis, inward movement of exogenously added fluorescent PS did not decline, and DNA was not cleaved during fMLP stimulation. Movement of phospholipids occurred within minutes following stimulation, was independent of endocytosis/pinocytosis, and was consistent with bidirectional, transbilayer phospholipid flip-flop. While the role of phospholipid scramblase 1 (PLSCR1) is controversial in flip-flop, we sought evidence for its role in enhanced phospholipid movements during fMLP stimulation. Using antibodies to the carboxyl-terminal domain of PLSCR1, its presence in the plasma membranes of non-permeabilized neutrophils was confirmed by flow cytometry. Additionally subcellular fractionation demonstrated that PLSCR1 was also located in secretory vesicles and tertiary and secondary granules. Activation of neutrophils with fMLP, however, did not significantly alter surface labeling suggesting that stimulated phospholipid flip-flop does not require additional mobilization of PLSCR1 to the plasma membrane. As expected for palmitoylated proteins, PLSCR1 was enriched in detergent-insoluble membranes and co-localized with raft markers at the neutrophil uropod after stimulation. Of note, PS exposure, phospholipid uptake, and FM 1-43 staining also localized to the uropod following stimulation demonstrating that both PLSCR1 and phospholipid flip-flop characterize this specialized domain of polarized neutrophils.

Apoptotic cell and phagocyte interplay: recognition and consequences in different cell systems

Cell death by apoptosis is characterized by specific biochemical changes, including the exposure of multiple ligands, expected to tag the dying cell for prompt recognition by phagocytes. In non-pathological conditions, an efficient clearance is assured by the redundant interaction between apoptotic cell ligands and multiple receptor molecules present on the engulfing cell surface. This review concentrates on the molecular interactions operating in mammalian and non-mammalian systems for apoptotic cell recognition, as well as on the consequences of their signaling. Furthermore, some cellular models where the exposure of the phosphatidylserine (PS) phospholipid, a classical hallmark of the apoptotic phenotype, is not followed by cell death will be discussed.

An extracellular driving force of cell-shape changes

The cellular capacity to internalise objects, involving attachment, engulfment and uptake, exists in virtually all organisms. Many uptake reactions are associated with cell signalling. However, the mechanical forces that form endocytotic vesicles are not known. We propose a 'leverage-mediated' uptake mechanism involving lateral cross-linking processes on the cell surface that can generate the configurational energy to create an inverse curvature of the membrane.

Stable cubic phases in codispersions of glucocerebroside and palmitoyloleoylphosphatidylethanolamine

The effect of glucocerebroside (GlcCer) on the structure and thermotropic phase behavior of aqueous dispersions of palmitoyloleoylphosphatidylethanolamine (POPE) has been examined using simultaneous small-angle and wide-angle X-ray diffraction methods. Binary mixtures of GlcCer:POPE in molar ratios of 2:100, 5:100, 10:100, 20:100, 30:100, and 40:100 were examined in the temperature range 20-90 degrees C. Cubic phase has been observed in binary mixtures comprised of molar ratios greater than 5:100 in the temperature range of 60-90 degrees C upon heating at a rate of 2 degrees C/min. The cubic phase is relatively stable and coexists with inverted hexagonal or lamellar phases. It persists in the codispersions throughout subsequent cooling scans to 30 degrees C. The space group of the cubic phase is determined to be Pn3m or Pn3. The lattice constant of the Pn3m cubic phase was found to be almost constant when it coexists with lamellar liquid-crystal phase. Marked temperature-dependent changes were observed when cubic phase coexists with hexagonal phase or lamellar-gel phases. This is the first report of cubic phases formed by codispersions of glycosphingolipids and phospholipids. The mechanism of cubic phase formation and the interaction between GlcCer and POPE is discussed in terms of the putative biological functions of glycolipids.