Biophysical drivers of decompression tolerance in cell membranes
Abstract
Decompression sickness (DCS) is a medical condition that widely afflicts Naval divers and is caused by changes in pressure. Our project will use experimental biophysics, lipidomics, comparative physiology, and cellular engineering to better understand mechanisms underlying decompression sickness in cell membranes. We will focus on the pressure-mediated release of microparticles, membrane vesicles which are proposed agents in decompression pathologies. Microparticles are released from cells under hyperbaric conditions and during decompression, where they act as bioactive agents that initiate physiological responses relevant to DCS. However, the cellular mechanisms of microparticle release and even their fundamental properties are poorly defined. To overcome this, we will work with a team of collaborators to better characterize pressure-induced microparticles in both experimental models and diving mammals and develop cellular models for their release. Our central hypothesis is that changes in membrane composition and structure could mediate physiological responses to decompression stresses. This work could provide mechanisms underlying DCS and potential avenues to mitigate its effects in divers. Approved for public release.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Jun 29, 2023
- Source ID
- N000142312543
Entities
People
- Itay Budin
Organizations
- Office of Naval Research
- United States Navy
- University of California, San Diego