Formation and Utilization of Stable Lipid Membranes with Multiple Resistance States.
Abstract
Studies have been initiated on development of stable membranes with non linear resistance characteristics related to those observed in experimental lipid bilayer membranes treated with EIM (excitability inducing material). Further studies on the negative resistance of the EIM lipid bilayers showed that EIM penetrates the membrane to form ion conductive channels with two or more conductance states. The probability that each channel may exist in open or closed states is affected by the potential across the channel so the potential dependent resistance transitions in the EIM membrane are reflections of change in relative populations in open or closed states. Definite evidence has been obtained, however, that each channel may exist in certain intermediate conductance states in addition to fully open or fully closed states. Studies of resistance characteristics of thin polymeric membranes have revealed non linear characteristics in film cast upon glass or aqueous surfaces. Films, 1-3 micrometers thick prepared from ethyl cellulose, polycarbonate, or polyamide, or combinations of these materials with each other or with lipids may have significant non linear resistances including partial rectification characteristics. Sensors for air-borne organic vapors, based upon membrane interface relations, have been tested. Significant sensitivities to a number of organic compounds were obtained. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 1971
- Accession Number
- AD0725783
Entities
People
- Ross C. Bean