Characterization of the volumetric properties of five bioactive peptides, liposomes and their interactions

Abstract

The thermodynamic properties of bioactive peptides determine how they interact with cellular assemblies. Ultrasonic velocity and density measurements were used to analyse the volumetric properties in aqueous solution of 3 different materials: KCl, bioactive peptides (from hemp seed and dairy proteins), and liposomes (cell membrane models), as well as the interaction between peptides and liposomes. Serial dilutions of the three different materials showed linear relationships between density and concentration and between ultrasonic velocity and concentration. The apparent specific volume and apparent specific compressibility in solution of all materials showed concentration dependence as a result of increased electrostriction as solutions were diluted. The experimental ultrasonic velocities of liposome-dairy peptide mixes were higher than the theoretical additive value, due to interactions between liposomes and peptides. My research demonstrates the benefits of precise volumetric assessments in biological assays.