Abstract
We reproduce the symmetric and asymmetric “rippled” states of lipid membranes by Monte Carlo simulations of a coarse-grained molecular model for lipid-solvent mixtures. The structure and properties compare favorably with experiments. The asymmetric ripple state is characterized by a periodic array of fully interdigitated “defect” lines. The symmetric ripple state maintains a bilayer structure, but is otherwise structurally similar. The main force driving the formation of both ripple states is the propensity of lipid molecules with large head groups to exhibit splay.
- Received 3 August 2006
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.98.058104
©2007 American Physical Society