Microscopic Viscosity of Neuronal Plasma Membranes Measured Using Fluorescent Molecular Rotors: Effects of Oxidative Stress and Neuroprotection

• DOI: 10.1021/acsami.9b10426
• Publication Date: 2019-09-12T18:23:05Z
• Authors: Markéta Kubánková; Peter A. Summers; Ismael López-Duarte; Darya Kiryushko; Marina K. Kuimova
• Keywords: Microviscosity

Molecular mobility in neuronal plasma membranes is a crucial factor brain function. Microscopic viscosity an important parameter that determines molecular mobility. This study presents the first direct measurement of microviscosity live neurons. Microviscosity maps were obtained using fluorescence lifetime imaging environment-sensing dyes termed "molecular rotors". Neurons investigated both basal state and following common neurodegenerative stimuli, excitotoxicity, or oxidative stress. Both types neurotoxic challenges induced decrease cultured neurons, oxidant-induced membrane fluidification was counteracted by wide-spectrum neuroprotectant, H3 peptide. These results provide new insights into membranes, paramount for basic function, suggest preservation stability may be aspect neuroprotection insults disorders.