Analysis of Trisiloxane Phosphocholine Bilayers

Abstract

We have synthesized unique siloxane phosphocholines and characterized their aggregates in aqueous solution. The siloxane phosphocholines form nearly monodisperse vesicles in aqueous solution without the need for secondary extrusion processes. The area/lipid, lipid volume, and bilayer thickness were determined from small-angle X-ray scattering experiments. The impetus for the spontaneous formation of unilamellar vesicles by these compounds is discussed.