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Färber N, Reitler J, Schäfer J, Westerhausen C. Transport Across Cell Membranes is Modulated by Lipid Order. Adv Biol (Weinh) 2023; 7:e2200282. [PMID: 36651118 DOI: 10.1002/adbi.202200282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2022] [Revised: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
This study measures the uptake of various dyes into HeLa cells and determines simultaneously the degree of membrane lipid chain order on a single cell level by spectral analysis of the membrane-embedded dye Laurdan. First, this study finds that the mean generalized polarization (GP) value of single cells varies within a population in a range that is equivalent to a temperature variation of 9 K. This study exploits this natural variety of membrane order to examine the uptake as a function of GP at constant temperature. It is shown that transport across the cell membrane correlates with the membrane phase state. Specifically, higher membrane transport with increasing lipid chain order is observed. As a result, hypothermal-adapted cells with reduced lipid membrane order show less transport. Environmental factors influence transport as well. While increasing temperature reduces lipid order, it is found that locally high cell densities increase lipid order and in turn lead to increased dye uptake. To demonstrate the physiological relevance, membrane state and transport during an in vitro wound healing process are analyzed. While the uptake within a confluent cell layer is high, it decreases toward the center where the membrane lipid chain order is lowest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Färber
- Experimental Physics I, Institute of Physics, University of Augsburg, Universitätsstraße 1, 86159, Augsburg, Germany
- Physiology, Institute of Theoretical Medicine, University of Augsburg, Universitätsstraße 2, 86159, Augsburg, Germany
| | - Jonas Reitler
- Physiology, Institute of Theoretical Medicine, University of Augsburg, Universitätsstraße 2, 86159, Augsburg, Germany
| | - Julian Schäfer
- Physiology, Institute of Theoretical Medicine, University of Augsburg, Universitätsstraße 2, 86159, Augsburg, Germany
| | - Christoph Westerhausen
- Experimental Physics I, Institute of Physics, University of Augsburg, Universitätsstraße 1, 86159, Augsburg, Germany
- Physiology, Institute of Theoretical Medicine, University of Augsburg, Universitätsstraße 2, 86159, Augsburg, Germany
- Center for NanoScience (CeNS), Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität Munich, 80799, Munich, Germany
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2
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Heimburg T. The excitable fluid mosaic. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA. BIOMEMBRANES 2023; 1865:184104. [PMID: 36642342 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamem.2022.184104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2022] [Revised: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
The Fluid Mosaic Model by Singer & Nicolson proposes that biological membranes consist of a fluid lipid layer into which integral proteins are embedded. The lipid membrane acts as a two-dimensional liquid in which the proteins can diffuse and interact. Until today, this view seems very reasonable and is the predominant picture in the literature. However, there exist broad melting transitions in biomembranes some 10-20 degrees below physiological temperatures that reach up to body temperature. Since they are found below body temperature, Singer & Nicolson did not pay any further attention to the melting process. But this is a valid view only as long as nothing happens. The transition temperature can be influenced by membrane tension, pH, ionic strength and other variables. Therefore, it is not generally correct that the physiological temperature is above this transition. The control over the membrane state by changing the intensive variables renders the membrane as a whole excitable. One expects phase behavior and domain formation that leads to protein sorting and changes in membrane function. Thus, the lipids become an active ingredient of the biological membrane. The melting transition affects the elastic constants of the membrane. This allows for the generation of propagating pulses in nerves and the formation of ion-channel-like pores in the lipid membranes. Here we show that on top of the fluid mosaic concept there exists a wealth of excitable phenomena that go beyond the original picture of Singer & Nicolson.1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Heimburg
- Membrane Biophysics Group, Niels Bohr Institute, University of Copenhagen, Denmark.
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3
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Temperature-robust rapid eye movement and slow wave sleep in the lizard Laudakia vulgaris. Commun Biol 2022; 5:1310. [PMID: 36446903 PMCID: PMC9709036 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-022-04261-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
During sleep our brain switches between two starkly different brain states - slow wave sleep (SWS) and rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. While this two-state sleep pattern is abundant across birds and mammals, its existence in other vertebrates is not universally accepted, its evolutionary emergence is unclear and it is undetermined whether it is a fundamental property of vertebrate brains or an adaptation specific to homeotherms. To address these questions, we conducted electrophysiological recordings in the Agamid lizard, Laudakia vulgaris during sleep. We found clear signatures of two-state sleep that resemble the mammalian and avian sleep patterns. These states switched periodically throughout the night with a cycle of ~90 seconds and were remarkably similar to the states previously reported in Pogona vitticeps. Interestingly, in contrast to the high temperature sensitivity of mammalian states, state switches were robust to large variations in temperature. We also found that breathing rate, micro-movements and eye movements were locked to the REM state as they are in mammals. Collectively, these findings suggest that two-state sleep is abundant across the agamid family, shares physiological similarity to mammalian sleep, and can be maintain in poikilothems, increasing the probability that it existed in the cold-blooded ancestor of amniotes.
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Fabiunke S, Fillafer C, Schneider MF. Unitary Response of Solvatochromic Dye to Pulse Excitation in Lipid and Cell Membranes. LANGMUIR : THE ACS JOURNAL OF SURFACES AND COLLOIDS 2022; 38:12408-12413. [PMID: 36154016 DOI: 10.1021/acs.langmuir.2c02261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The existence of acoustic pulse propagation in lipid monolayers at the air-water interface is well known. These pulses are controlled by the thermodynamic state of the lipid membrane. Nevertheless, the role of acoustic pulses for intra- and inter-cellular communication is still a matter of debate. Herein, we used the dye di-4-ANEPPDHQ, which is known to be sensitive to the physical state and transmembrane potential of membranes, in order to gain insights into compression waves in lipid-based membrane interfaces. The dye was incorporated into lipid monolayers made of phosphatidylserine or phosphatidylcholine at the air-water-interface. A significant blue shift of the emission spectrum was detected when the state of the monolayer was changed from the liquid-expanded (LE) to the liquid-condensed (LC) phase. This "transition sensitivity" of di-4-ANEPPDHQ was generalized in experiments with the bulk solvent dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO). Upon crystallization of solvent, the emission spectrum also underwent a blue shift. During compression pulses in lipid monolayers, a significant fluorescence response was only observed when the main transition is crossed. The optical signature of these waves─in terms of sign and magnitude─was identical to the response of di-4-ANEPPDHQ during action potentials in neurons and excitable plant cells. These findings corroborated the suggestion that action potentials are nonlinear state changes that propagate in the cell membrane.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Fabiunke
- Department of Medical and Biological Physics, Technical University Dortmund, 44227 Dortmund, Germany
| | - Christian Fillafer
- Department of Medical and Biological Physics, Technical University Dortmund, 44227 Dortmund, Germany
| | - Matthias F Schneider
- Department of Medical and Biological Physics, Technical University Dortmund, 44227 Dortmund, Germany
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Kisnieriene V, Trębacz K, Pupkis V, Koselski M, Lapeikaite I. Evolution of long-distance signalling upon plant terrestrialization: comparison of action potentials in Characean algae and liverworts. ANNALS OF BOTANY 2022; 130:457-475. [PMID: 35913486 PMCID: PMC9510943 DOI: 10.1093/aob/mcac098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In this review, we summarize data concerning action potentials (APs) - long-distance electrical signals in Characean algae and liverworts. These lineages are key in understanding the mechanisms of plant terrestrialization. Liverworts are postulated to be pioneer land plants, whereas aquatic charophytes are considered the closest relatives to land plants. The drastic change of the habitat was coupled with the adaptation of signalling systems to the new environment. SCOPE APs fulfil the 'all-or-nothing' law, exhibit refractory periods and propagate with a uniform velocity. Their ion mechanism in the algae and liverworts consists of a Ca2+ influx (from external and internal stores) followed by/coincident with a Cl- efflux, which both evoke the membrane potential depolarization, and a K+ efflux leading to repolarization. The molecular identity of ion channels responsible for these fluxes remains unknown. Publication of the Chara braunii and Marchantia polymorpha genomes opened up new possibilities for studying the molecular basis of APs. Here we present the list of genes which can participate in AP electrogenesis. We also point out the differences between these plant species, e.g. the absence of Ca2+-permeable glutamate receptors (GLRs) and Cl--permeable SLAC1 channel homologues in the Chara genome. Both these channels play a vital role in long-distance signalling in liverworts and vascular plants. Among the common properties of APs in liverworts and higher plants is their duration (dozens of seconds) and the speed of propagation (mm s-1), which are much slower than in the algae (seconds, and dozens of mm s-1, respectively). CONCLUSIONS Future studies with combined application of electrophysiological and molecular techniques should unravel the ion channel proteins responsible for AP generation, their regulation and transduction of those signals to physiological responses. This should also help to understand the adaptation of the signalling systems to the land environment and further evolution of APs in vascular plants.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Vilmantas Pupkis
- Department of Neurobiology and Biophysics, Institute of Biosciences, Life Sciences Center, Vilnius University, Saulėtekio Ave, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Mateusz Koselski
- Department of Plant Physiology and Biophysics, Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, Maria Curie-Sklodowska University, Akademicka, Lublin, Poland
| | - Indre Lapeikaite
- Department of Neurobiology and Biophysics, Institute of Biosciences, Life Sciences Center, Vilnius University, Saulėtekio Ave, Vilnius, Lithuania
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Abstract
Phase transitions in materials are accompanied by drastic changes in their properties. Systems abruptly become softer, more conductive, have better heat storage, or support chemical reactions more efficiently. Since changes take place over small variations in external conditions (tension, temperature, pH, calcium), they appear like an on/off switch. Here, we provide experimental evidence that membrane patches of single living cells can go through a reversible phase transition. It is extremely “sharp” (highly nonlinear), and from a thermodynamic point of view we conclude it cannot only be triggered by temperature but also by pH changes (as produced by enzymes). The results strongly support the idea that phase transitions may be a tool for living systems to control their functions even specifically. The origin of nonlinear responses in cells has been suggested to be crucial for various cell functions including the propagation of the nervous impulse. In physics, nonlinear behavior often originates from phase transitions. Evidence for such transitions on the single-cell level, however, has so far not been provided, leaving the field unattended by the biological community. Here, we demonstrate that single cells of a human neuronal cell line display all optical features of a sharp, highly nonlinear phase transition within their membrane. The transition is reversible and does not originate from protein denaturation. Triggered by temperature and modified by pH here, a thermodynamic approach strongly suggests that similar nonlinear state changes can be induced by other variables such as calcium or mechanical stress. At least in lipid membranes, such state changes are accompanied by significant changes in permeability, enzyme activity, elastic, and electrical properties.
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Fillafer C, Koll YS, Schneider MF. Lipid Membrane State Change by Catalytic Protonation and the Implications for Synaptic Transmission. MEMBRANES 2021; 12:5. [PMID: 35054529 PMCID: PMC8781637 DOI: 10.3390/membranes12010005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2021] [Revised: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
In cholinergic synapses, the neurotransmitter acetylcholine (ACh) is rapidly hydrolyzed by esterases to choline and acetic acid (AH). It is believed that this reaction serves the purpose of deactivating ACh once it has exerted its effect on a receptor protein (AChR). The protons liberated in this reaction, however, may by themselves excite the postsynaptic membrane. Herein, we investigated the response of cell membrane models made from phosphatidylcholine (PC), phosphatidylserine (PS) and phosphatidic acid (PA) to ACh in the presence and absence of acetylcholinesterase (AChE). Without a catalyst, there were no significant effects of ACh on the membrane state (lateral pressure change ≤0.5 mN/m). In contrast, strong responses were observed in membranes made from PS and PA when ACh was applied in presence of AChE (>5 mN/m). Control experiments demonstrated that this effect was due to the protonation of lipid headgroups, which is maximal at the pK (for PS: pKCOOH≈5.0; for PA: pKHPO4-≈8.5). These findings are physiologically relevant, because both of these lipids are present in postsynaptic membranes. Furthermore, we discussed evidence which suggests that AChR assembles a lipid-protein interface that is proton-sensitive in the vicinity of pH 7.5. Such a membrane could be excited by hydrolysis of micromolar amounts of ACh. Based on these results, we proposed that cholinergic transmission is due to postsynaptic membrane protonation. Our model will be falsified if cholinergic membranes do not respond to acidification.
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Drukarch B, Wilhelmus MMM, Shrivastava S. The thermodynamic theory of action potential propagation: a sound basis for unification of the physics of nerve impulses. Rev Neurosci 2021; 33:285-302. [PMID: 34913622 DOI: 10.1515/revneuro-2021-0094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
The thermodynamic theory of action potential propagation challenges the conventional understanding of the nerve signal as an exclusively electrical phenomenon. Often misunderstood as to its basic tenets and predictions, the thermodynamic theory is virtually ignored in mainstream neuroscience. Addressing a broad audience of neuroscientists, we here attempt to stimulate interest in the theory. We do this by providing a concise overview of its background, discussion of its intimate connection to Albert Einstein's treatment of the thermodynamics of interfaces and outlining its potential contribution to the building of a physical brain theory firmly grounded in first principles and the biophysical reality of individual nerve cells. As such, the paper does not attempt to advocate the superiority of the thermodynamic theory over any other approach to model the nerve impulse, but is meant as an open invitation to the neuroscience community to experimentally test the assumptions and predictions of the theory on their validity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Drukarch
- Department of Anatomy and Neurosciences, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1108, 1081 HZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Micha M M Wilhelmus
- Department of Anatomy and Neurosciences, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1108, 1081 HZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Shamit Shrivastava
- Institute for Biomedical Engineering, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7DQ, UK
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Takeda Y, Hata K, Yamazaki T, Kaneko M, Yokoi O, Tsai C, Umemura K, Nikuni T. Numerical Simulation: Fluctuation in Background Synaptic Activity Regulates Synaptic Plasticity. Front Syst Neurosci 2021; 15:771661. [PMID: 34880734 PMCID: PMC8646040 DOI: 10.3389/fnsys.2021.771661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Synaptic plasticity is vital for learning and memory in the brain. It consists of long-term potentiation (LTP) and long-term depression (LTD). Spike frequency is one of the major components of synaptic plasticity in the brain, a noisy environment. Recently, we mathematically analyzed the frequency-dependent synaptic plasticity (FDP) in vivo and found that LTP is more likely to occur with an increase in the frequency of background synaptic activity. Meanwhile, previous studies suggest statistical fluctuation in the amplitude of background synaptic activity. Little is understood, however, about its contribution to synaptic plasticity. To address this issue, we performed numerical simulations of a calcium-based synapse model. Then, we found attenuation of the tendency to become LTD due to an increase in the fluctuation of background synaptic activity, leading to an enhancement of synaptic weight. Our result suggests that the fluctuation affects synaptic plasticity in the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuto Takeda
- Department of Physics, Tokyo University of Science, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Katsuhiko Hata
- Department of Physics, Tokyo University of Science, Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Neuroscience, Research Center for Mathematical Medicine, Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Sports and Medical Science, Kokushikan University, Tokyo, Japan.,Graduate School of Emergency Medical System, Kokushikan University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tokio Yamazaki
- Department of Physics, Tokyo University of Science, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masaki Kaneko
- KYB Medical Service Co., Ltd., Tokyo, Japan.,The Institute of Physical Education, Kokushikan University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Osamu Yokoi
- Department of Neuroscience, Research Center for Mathematical Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Chengta Tsai
- Department of Neuroscience, Research Center for Mathematical Medicine, Tokyo, Japan.,Graduate School of Emergency Medical System, Kokushikan University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kazuo Umemura
- Department of Physics, Tokyo University of Science, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tetsuro Nikuni
- Department of Physics, Tokyo University of Science, Tokyo, Japan
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10
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Manoj KM, Tamagawa H. Critical analysis of explanations for cellular homeostasis and electrophysiology from murburn perspective. J Cell Physiol 2021; 237:421-435. [PMID: 34515340 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.30578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Revised: 08/27/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Pursuits in modern cellular electrophysiology are fraught with disagreements at a fundamental level. While the membrane theory of homeostasis deems the cell membrane and proteins embedded therein as the chief players, the association-induction (or sorption/bulk-phase) hypothesis considers the aqueous phase of dissolved proteins (cytoplasm/protoplasm) as the key determinant of cellular composition and ionic fluxes. In the first school of thought, trans-membrane potential (TMP) and selective ion pumps/channels are deemed as key operative principles. In the latter theory, sorption-desorption dynamics and rearrangements of bulk phase determine the outcomes. In both these schools of thought, theorists believe that the macroscopic phase electroneutrality holds, TMP (whether in resting or in activated state) results solely due to ionic concentration differentials across the membrane, and the concerned proteins undergo major conformation changes to affect/effect the noted outcomes. The new entry into the field, murburn concept, builds starting from molecular considerations to macroscopic observations. It moots "effective charge separation" and intricate "molecule-ion-radical" electron transfer equilibriums as a rationale for ionic concentration differentials and TMP variation. After making an unbiased appraisal of the two classical schools of thought, the review makes a point-wise analysis of some hitherto unresolved observations/considerations and suggests the need to rethink the mechanistic perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelath Murali Manoj
- Satyamjayatu: The Science & Ethics Foundation, Kulappully, Palakkad District, Shoranur-2 (PO), Kerala, India
| | - Hirohisa Tamagawa
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Gifu University, Yanagido, Gifu City, Japan
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11
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Galassi VV, Wilke N. On the Coupling between Mechanical Properties and Electrostatics in Biological Membranes. MEMBRANES 2021; 11:478. [PMID: 34203412 PMCID: PMC8306103 DOI: 10.3390/membranes11070478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2021] [Revised: 06/18/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Cell membrane structure is proposed as a lipid matrix with embedded proteins, and thus, their emerging mechanical and electrostatic properties are commanded by lipid behavior and their interconnection with the included and absorbed proteins, cytoskeleton, extracellular matrix and ionic media. Structures formed by lipids are soft, dynamic and viscoelastic, and their properties depend on the lipid composition and on the general conditions, such as temperature, pH, ionic strength and electrostatic potentials. The dielectric constant of the apolar region of the lipid bilayer contrasts with that of the polar region, which also differs from the aqueous milieu, and these changes happen in the nanometer scale. Besides, an important percentage of the lipids are anionic, and the rest are dipoles or higher multipoles, and the polar regions are highly hydrated, with these water molecules forming an active part of the membrane. Therefore, electric fields (both, internal and external) affects membrane thickness, density, tension and curvature, and conversely, mechanical deformations modify membrane electrostatics. As a consequence, interfacial electrostatics appears as a highly important parameter, affecting the membrane properties in general and mechanical features in particular. In this review we focus on the electromechanical behavior of lipid and cell membranes, the physicochemical origin and the biological implications, with emphasis in signal propagation in nerve cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanesa Viviana Galassi
- Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, Mendoza M5500, Argentina;
- Instituto Interdisciplinario de Ciencias Básicas (ICB), Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, CONICET, Mendoza M5500, Argentina
| | - Natalia Wilke
- Departamento de Química Biológica Ranwel Caputto, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba X5000HUA, Argentina
- Centro de Investigaciones en Química Biológica de Córdoba (CIQUIBIC), Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, CONICET, Córdoba X5000HUA, Argentina
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Schneider MF. Living systems approached from physical principles. PROGRESS IN BIOPHYSICS AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2020; 162:2-25. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pbiomolbio.2020.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2020] [Revised: 09/21/2020] [Accepted: 10/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
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13
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Jerusalem A, Al-Rekabi Z, Chen H, Ercole A, Malboubi M, Tamayo-Elizalde M, Verhagen L, Contera S. Electrophysiological-mechanical coupling in the neuronal membrane and its role in ultrasound neuromodulation and general anaesthesia. Acta Biomater 2019; 97:116-140. [PMID: 31357005 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2019.07.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2019] [Revised: 07/20/2019] [Accepted: 07/23/2019] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
The current understanding of the role of the cell membrane is in a state of flux. Recent experiments show that conventional models, considering only electrophysiological properties of a passive membrane, are incomplete. The neuronal membrane is an active structure with mechanical properties that modulate electrophysiology. Protein transport, lipid bilayer phase, membrane pressure and stiffness can all influence membrane capacitance and action potential propagation. A mounting body of evidence indicates that neuronal mechanics and electrophysiology are coupled, and together shape the membrane potential in tight coordination with other physical properties. In this review, we summarise recent updates concerning electrophysiological-mechanical coupling in neuronal function. In particular, we aim at making the link with two relevant yet often disconnected fields with strong clinical potential: the use of mechanical vibrations-ultrasound-to alter the electrophysiogical state of neurons, e.g., in neuromodulation, and the theories attempting to explain the action of general anaesthetics. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: General anaesthetics revolutionised medical practice; now an apparently unrelated technique, ultrasound neuromodulation-aimed at controlling neuronal activity by means of ultrasound-is poised to achieve a similar level of impact. While both technologies are known to alter the electrophysiology of neurons, the way they achieve it is still largely unknown. In this review, we argue that in order to explain their mechanisms/effects, the neuronal membrane must be considered as a coupled mechano-electrophysiological system that consists of multiple physical processes occurring concurrently and collaboratively, as opposed to sequentially and independently. In this framework the behaviour of the cell membrane is not the result of stereotypical mechanisms in isolation but instead emerges from the integrative behaviour of a complexly coupled multiphysics system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antoine Jerusalem
- Department of Engineering Science, University of Oxford, Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3PJ, UK.
| | - Zeinab Al-Rekabi
- Department of Physics, University of Oxford, Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3PU, UK
| | - Haoyu Chen
- Department of Engineering Science, University of Oxford, Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3PJ, UK
| | - Ari Ercole
- Division of Anaesthesia, University of Cambridge, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Hills Road, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, UK
| | - Majid Malboubi
- Department of Engineering Science, University of Oxford, Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3PJ, UK
| | - Miren Tamayo-Elizalde
- Department of Engineering Science, University of Oxford, Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3PJ, UK
| | - Lennart Verhagen
- Wellcome Centre for Integrative Neuroimaging (WIN), Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3TA, UK; WIN, Centre for Functional MRI of the Brain, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Sonia Contera
- Department of Physics, University of Oxford, Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3PU, UK.
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