Analysis of permeation of model membranes by Peptaibolin mimetics by fluorescence spectroscopy

Abstract

The membrane permeabilization ability of a model peptaibol and several mimetics incorporating unnatural α,α- dialkylglycines were studied by fluorescence spectroscopy. The model membranes (egg phosphatidylcholine/cholesterol, 70:30) contained a fluorescent probe encapsulated. By addition of peptides at different peptide to lipid ratios, it was possible to follow the release of the encapsulated probe, monitoring the increase in fluorescence intensity over time using fluorescence spectroscopy.