Cytochrome c (cyt-c) is an essential protein in the mitochondrial electron transport process. Besides this function it has been found that it’s involved in activating apoptosis, which makes it a potential therapeutic protein for cancer. This investigation is focused on the encapsulation of cyt-c in liposomes for drug delivery applications. The research objective is to study the interaction of cyt-c with liposomes at the atomic level using solution nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. The liposomes are made via extrusion of lipids with either neutral net charge (POPC) or net negative charge (PS), to analyze electrostatic interactions with cyt-c, which carries a net positive charge. Test were done using commercial horse cyt-c and expressed human cyt-c using recombinant DNA methods, incorporating 15N and 13C isotopes for NMR analysis. The results show that cyt-c binds to negatively charged liposomes in a reversible process in which the protein regains its structure as evidenced by NMR spectra. Interestingly, the strength of interaction depends on the protein-lipid conjugation method, pointing to a possible hydrophobic interaction when the protein and lipids are co-extruded.

Protein encapsulation and liposome interactions studied by solution NMR spectroscopy

Macromolecular Chemistry: The Second Century

[Author Benefits](https://scimeetings.acs.org/?utm_source=pubs_content_marketing&utm_medium=website&utm_campaign=0320_MCF_NPI_Launch_Spring_Homepage&ref=pubs_content_marketing)

[How to use SciMeetings](https://storage.googleapis.com/dl.morressier.com/acs/SciMeetings-ACSSpring2020-HowToGuide_M3020-Final.pdf)

[Frequently Asked Questions](https://storage.googleapis.com/dl.morressier.com/acs/SciMtng_ACSNMSp2020_FAQ_M3120_Final.pdf)

ACS Spring 2020 National Meeting & Expo

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.