Journal of Undergraduate Research
Keywords
bilayer membrane fusion rates, cholesterol
College
Life Sciences
Department
Physiology and Developmental Biology
Abstract
A bilayer is a two-layered membrane made of lipids that form around cells. These membranes are formed by hydrophobic tails (water fearing) and hydrophilic heads (water loving) that align such that the tails are isolated from water, while the heads are exposed to water to form micelles, liposomes, or sheets (Fig. 1). They are used to regulate what can enter and exit a cell. A fusion event occurs when a liposome fuses with a sheet. In our experiments, we are able to see the effects on fusion rate by altering the cholesterol content of the sheets.
Recommended Citation
Lee, David and Woodbury, Dr. Dixon
(2013)
"Increasing Bilayer Membrance Fusion Rates by Increasing Cholesterol Content,"
Journal of Undergraduate Research: Vol. 2013:
Iss.
1, Article 1496.
Available at:
https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/jur/vol2013/iss1/1496