Cytochrome c produces pores in cardiolipin-containing planar bilayer lipid membranes in the presence of hydrogen peroxide

Interaction of cytochrome c with cardiolipin in the presence of hydrogen peroxide induces peroxidase activity in cytochrome c and the ability to oxidize membrane lipids. These cytochrome c properties play a substantial role in the cytochrome c-mediated apoptotic reactions. In the present study the electric properties (specific capacitance and integral conductance) of the cardiolipin-containing asolectin planar bilayer lipid membranes (pBLM) in the presence of cytochrome c and hydrogen peroxide were studied. Cytochrome c interaction with cardiolipin-containing pBLM in the presence of hydrogen peroxide resulted in the dramatic increase of the conductance, pore production, their growth up to 3.5 nm diameter and subsequent membrane destruction. In the absence of hydrogen peroxide cytochrome c demonstrated almost no effect on the membrane capacitance and conductance. The data obtained prove the pivotal role of cytochrome c and membrane lipids in the permeabilization of pBLM. Correlation of apoptotic reactions and cytochrome c-mediated membrane permeability is discussed.

Graphical abstractFigure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload high-quality image (185 K)Download as PowerPoint slideHighlights► The complex of cytochrome c with cardiolipin exhibits peroxidase activity. ► Membrane lipids are oxidized when hydrogen peroxide added to this system. ► Cytochrome c and lipids interaction was studied on planar membranes. ► During their interaction an increase of the ionic conductance was found. ► Calculated diameter of the pores comparable to diameter of the cytochrome c