Impact of the antimicrobial peptide Novicidin on membrane structure and integrity

We have studied the impact of an 18-residue cationic antimicrobial peptide Novicidin (Nc) on the structure and integrity of partially anionic lipid membranes using oriented circular dichroism (OCD), quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation (QCM-D), dual polarization interferometry (DPI), calcein dye leakage and fluorescence spectroscopy. OCD consistently showed that Nc is bound in an α-helical, surface bound state over a range of peptide to lipid (P/L) ratios up to ∼1:15. Realignment of Nc at higher P/L ratios correlates to loss of membrane integrity as shown by Laurdan fluorescence spectroscopy and by loss of lipid alignment in DPI analysis. Laurdan generalized polarity shows a decrease in water accessibility or mobility in the hydrophobic/hydrophilic interface of the lipid membrane, consistent with rearrangement of lipid packing. QCM-D studies on the interaction of Nc with lipid membranes emphasize the importance of including the dissipation factor in data analysis, revealing formation of a highly hydrated film after exposure to ⩾3 μM Nc. Our findings suggest a carpet mechanism of membrane disruption in which peptide binding first induces leakage at a critical surface concentration, probably through formation of transient pores or transient disruption of the membrane integrity, followed by more extensive membrane disintegration at higher P/L ratios.

Mechanism of Novicidin (Nc) interaction with anionic membranes. At low concentrations, Nc binds in a surface bound state without causing leakage. At higher concentration, transient pores are initially formed although the overall integrity of the membrane is preserved. At higher Nc concentrations, the membrane is significantly disturbed and disintegrates in a detergent-like manner.Figure optionsDownload high-quality image (107 K)Download as PowerPoint slide