Influence of proteins on model lipid membrane studied with application of the BLM-Black Lipid Membrane method

Black Lipid Membrane (BLM) technique was used to examine effects of BSA (Bovine serum albumin) on properties on the model membrane. BLMs were formed with FYPC (L- alpha -Phospatydyloeholine from eggs yolk) in n-dekane. BLM studied were performed in phosphate buffer (pH 7.4). Various concentrations of BSA (between 0.01 mg/ml and 2.5x10 super(-3) mg/ml) were used in order to optimize experimental conditions. BSA concentrations abov e 0.01 mg/ml proved too high as they caused collapse of the lipid membrane. Supplementation of the protein resulted in change of resistance of the lipid membrane. The experiment indicates that the protein incorporates into the lipid membrane.