Simulation of Domain Formation in DLPC−DSPC Mixed Bilayers

Citation (APA 7)

Faller, R., & Marrink, S. J. (2004). Simulation of domain formation in DLPC− DSPC mixed bilayers. Langmuir, 20(18), 7686-7693.

Abstract

Binary mixtures of two phosphatidylcholines of different chain lengths are simulated in the bilayer state. We find a phase transition between a liquid state and a gel state at all concentrations. This phase transition is characterized by the area per lipid headgroup, the order parameter, and a change in dynamics. At concentrations with a majority of the longer lipid, we find phase separation into a gel and a liquid state in a small temperature window. This leads to a strong dynamic heterogeneity. Experimental phase transition temperatures are reproduced semiquantitatively. We see a clear shift in the phase transition to higher temperatures with increasing concentration of the longer lipid.