α-casein micelles-membranes interaction: Flower-like lipid protein coaggregates formation

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Background: Environmental conditions regulate the association/aggregation states of proteins and their action in cellular compartments. Analysing protein behaviour in presence of lipid membranes is fundamental for the comprehension of many functional and dysfunctional processes. Here, we present an experimental study on the interaction between model membranes and α-casein. α-casein is the major component of milk proteins and it is recognised to play a key role in performing biological functions. The conformational properties of this protein and its capability to form supramolecular structures, like micelles or irreversible aggregates, are key effectors in functional and pathological effects. Methods: By means of quantitative fluorescence imaging and complementary spectroscopic methods, we were able to characterise α-casein association state and the course of events induced by pH changes, which regulate the interaction of this molecule with membranes. Results: The study of these complex dynamic events revealed that the initial conformation of the protein critically regulates the fate of α-casein, size and structure of the newly formed aggregates and their effect on membrane structures. Disassembly of micelles due to modification in electrostatic interactions results in increased membrane structure rigidity which accompanies the formation of protein lipid flower-like co-aggregates with protein molecules localised in the external part. General significance: These results may contribute to the comprehension of how the initial state of a protein establishes the course of events that occur upon changes in the molecular environment. These events which may occur in cells may be essential to functional, pathological or therapeutical properties specifically associated to casein proteins.

Original languageEnglish
Article number130196
JournalBiochimica et Biophysica Acta - General Subjects
Volume1866
Issue number10
Number of pages11
ISSN0304-4165
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2022

Bibliographical note

Funding Information:
The authors thank the University of Palermo for financial support (FFR – PROMETA project). GS has received funding from PON AIM1809078-1 . RICS analysis was performed at the “Bioimaging and Dosimetry lab”— Advanced Technologies Network (ATeN) Center, University of Palermo.

Publisher Copyright:
© 2022 Elsevier B.V.

    Research areas

  • Casein, Fluorescence, Micelles, Protein-membrane interactions, RICS

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