Models of stratum corneum intercellular membranes: the sphingolipid headgroup is a determinant of phase behavior in mixed lipid dispersions

New insight into phase behavior and permeability of skin lipid models based on sphingosine and phytosphingosine ceramides

The intercellular lipid matrix of the stratum corneum (SC), which consist mainly of ceramides (CERs), free fatty acids and cholesterol, is fundamental to the skin barrier function. These lipids assemble into two lamellar phases, known as the long and short periodicity phases (LPP and SPP respectively). The LPP is unique in the SC and is considered important for the skin barrier function. Alterations in CER composition, as well as impaired skin barrier function, are commonly observed in diseased skin, yet the understanding of this relationship remains insufficient. In this study, we have investigated the influence of non-hydroxy and α-hydroxy sphingosine-based CERs and their phytosphingosine counterparts on the permeability and lipid organization of model membranes, which were adjusted in composition to enhance formation of the LPP. The permeability was compared by diffusion studies using ethyl-p-aminobenzoate as a model drug, and the lipid organization was characterized by X-ray diffraction and infrared spectroscopy. Both the sphingosine- and phytosphingosine-based CER models formed the LPP, while the latter exhibited a longer LPP repeat distance. The ethyl-p-aminobenzoate flux across the sphingosine-based CER models was higher when compared to the phytosphingosine counterparts, contrary to the fact that the α-hydroxy phytosphingosine-based CER model had the lowest chain packing density. The unanticipated low permeability of the α-hydroxy phytosphingosine-based model is probably associated with a stronger headgroup hydrogen bonding network. Our findings indicate that the increased level of sphingosine-based CERs at the expense of phytosphingosine-based CERs, as observed in the diseased skin, may contribute to the barrier function impairment.

Membrane solid-state NMR in Canada: A historical perspective

This manuscript presents an overview of more than 40years of membrane solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) research in Canada. This technique is a method of choice for the study of the structure and dynamics of lipid bilayers; bilayer interactions with a variety of molecules such as membrane peptides, membrane proteins and drugs; and to investigate membrane peptide and protein structure, dynamics, and topology. Canada has a long tradition in this field of research, starting with pioneering work on natural and model membranes in the 1970s in a context of emergence of biophysics in the country. The 1980s and 1990s saw an emphasis on studying lipid structures and dynamics, and peptide-lipid and protein-lipid interactions. The study of bicelles began in the 1990s, and in the 2000s there was a rise in the study of membrane protein structures. Novel perspectives include using dynamic nuclear polarization (DNP) for membrane studies and using NMR in live cells. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Biophysics in Canada, edited by Lewis Kay, John Baenziger, Albert Berghuis and Peter Tieleman.

Taming the sphinx: Mechanisms of cellular sphingolipid homeostasis

Sphingolipids are important structural membrane components of eukaryotic cells, and potent signaling molecules. As such, their levels must be maintained to optimize cellular functions in different cellular membranes. Here, we review the current knowledge of homeostatic sphingolipid regulation. We describe recent studies in Saccharomyces cerevisiae that have provided insights into how cells sense changes in sphingolipid levels in the plasma membrane and acutely regulate sphingolipid biosynthesis by altering signaling pathways. We also discuss how cellular trafficking has emerged as an important determinant of sphingolipid homeostasis. Finally, we highlight areas where work is still needed to elucidate the mechanisms of sphingolipid regulation and the physiological functions of such regulatory networks, especially in mammalian cells. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: The cellular lipid landscape edited by Tim P. Levine and Anant K. Menon.

Rom2-dependent phosphorylation of Elo2 controls the abundance of very long-chain fatty acids

Sphingolipids are essential components of eukaryotic membranes, where they serve to maintain membrane integrity. They are important components of membrane trafficking and function in signaling as messenger molecules. Sphingolipids are synthesized de novo from very long-chain fatty acids (VLCFA) and sphingoid long-chain bases, which are amide linked to form ceramide and further processed by addition of various headgroups. Little is known concerning the regulation of VLCFA levels and how cells coordinate their synthesis with the availability of long-chain bases for sphingolipid synthesis. Here we show that Elo2, a key enzyme of VLCFA synthesis, is controlled by signaling of the guanine nucleotide exchange factor Rom2, initiating at the plasma membrane. This pathway controls Elo2 phosphorylation state and VLCFA synthesis. Our data identify a regulatory mechanism for coordinating VLCFA synthesis with sphingolipid metabolism and link signal transduction pathways from the plasma membrane to the regulation of lipids for membrane homeostasis.

Bioassays in natural product research - strategies and methods in the search for anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activity

INTRODUCTION

Identifying bioactive molecules from complex biomasses requires careful selection and execution of relevant bioassays in the various stages of the discovery process of potential leads and targets.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this review is to share our long-term experience in bioassay-guided isolation, and mechanistic studies, of bioactive compounds from different organisms in nature with emphasis on anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activity.

METHODS

In the search for anti-inflammatory activity, in vivo and in vitro model combinations with enzymes and cells involved in the inflammatory process have been used, such as cyclooxygenases, human neutrophils and human cancer cell lines. Methods concerning adsorption and perforation of bacteria, fungi, human cells and model membranes, have been developed and optimised, with emphasis on antimicrobial peptides and their interaction with the membrane target, in particular their ability to distinguish host from pathogen.

RESULTS

A long-term research has provided experience of selection and combination of bioassay models, which has led to an increased understanding of ethnopharmacological and ecological observations, together with in-depth knowledge of mode of action of isolated compounds.

CONCLUSION

A more multidisciplinary approach and a higher degree of fundamental research in development of bioassays are often necessary to identify and to fully understand the mode of action of bioactive molecules with novel structure-activity relationships from natural sources.

The structure and function of the stratum corneum

Over the past 150 years the skin's structure and function has been the subject of much investigation by scientists. The stratum corneum (SC), the skin's outermost layer and interface with the outside world is now well recognized as the barrier that prevents unwanted materials from entering, and excessive loss of water from exiting the body. This review summarizes the major advances in our understanding of this formidable membrane. The structure of the SC is outlined as well as techniques to visualize the barrier. The lipid organization and ionic gradients, as well as the metabolic responses and underlying cellular signalling that lead to barrier repair and homeostasis are discussed. Finally, a brief overview of the molecular and genetic factors that determine the development of a competent permeability barrier is provided.

Mixing properties of sphingomyelin ceramide bilayers: a simulation study

Ceramide is the simplest molecule in the class of glycosphingolipids composed of a sphingosine backbone and acyl moiety. It plays significant roles in cell signaling; apoptosis; binding of hormones, toxins, and viruses; and many other biologically important functions. Sphingomyelin, ceramide with a phosphotidylcholine headgroup, is another biologically vital lipid present in the myelin sheath of nerve cell axons. Regions with high concentrations of ceramide can be formed in biological membranes composed of sphingomyelin by enzymatic catalysis with sphingomyelinase. To better understand the biophysical and thermodynamic properties of these molecules and their mixtures, we have preformed NPT molecular dynamics simulations of hydrated 16:0 sphingomyelin bilayers with increasing concentrations of 16:0 ceramide at 323, 332, 340, and 358 K. From analyses of electron densities, hydrogen bonding, NMR order parameters, partial molecular volume, and partial molecular area, we have identified possible structural changes corresponding to liquid ordered and liquid disordered phases. These structural changes are the results of changes in intra- and intermolecular hydrogen bonds between SM and Cer molecules. Our results correspond to DSC experiments for sphingomyelin bilayer concentrations up to 50% Cer. Above 50% concentration, we observe conformational changes in the SM headgroup similar to that of the umbrella model for lipid cholesterol mixtures.

Phase behavior of an equimolar mixture of N-palmitoyl-D-erythro-sphingosine, cholesterol, and palmitic acid, a mixture with optimized hydrophobic matching

The phase behavior and lipid mixing properties of an equimolar mixture of nonhydroxylated palmitoyl ceramide (Cer16), palmitic acid (PA), and cholesterol have been investigated using 2H NMR and vibrational spectroscopy. This mixture is formed by the three main classes of lipids found in the stratum corneum (SC), the top layer of the epidermis, and provides an optimized hydrophobic matching. Therefore, its behavior highlights the role played by hydrophobic matching on the phase behavior of SC lipids. We found that, below 45 degrees C, the mixture is essentially formed of coexisting crystalline domains with a small fraction of lipids (less than 20%) that forms a gel or fluid phase, likely ensuring cohesion between the solid domains. Upon heating, there is the formation of a liquid ordered phase mainly composed of PA and cholesterol, including a small fraction of Cer16. This finding is particularly highlighted by correlation vibrational microspectroscopy that indicates that domains enriched in cholesterol and PA include more disordered Cer16 than those found in the Cer16-rich domains. Solubilization of Cer16 in the fluid phase occurs progressively upon further heating, and this leads to the formation of a nonlamellar self-assembly where the motions are isotropic on the NMR time scale. It is found that the miscibility of Cer16 with cholesterol and PA is more limited than the one previously observed for ceramide III extracted from bovine brain, which is heterogeneous in chain composition and includes, in addition to Cer16, analogous ceramide with longer alkyl chains that are not hydrophobically matched with cholesterol and PA. Therefore, it is inferred that, in SC, the chain heterogeneity is a stronger criteria for lipid miscibility than chain hydrophobic matching.

Infrared spectroscopy studies of mixtures prepared with synthetic ceramides varying in head group architecture: coexistence of liquid and crystalline phases

The barrier function of the skin is provided by the stratum corneum (SC), the outermost layer of the skin.Ceramides (CERs), cholesterol (CHOL) and free fatty acids (FFAs) are present in SC and form highly ordered crystalline lipid lamellae. These lamellae are crucial for a proper skin barrier function. In the present study,Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy was used to examine the lipid organization of mixtures prepared from synthetic CERs with CHOL and FFAs. The conformational ordering and lateral packing of these mixtures showed great similarities to the lipid organization in SC and lipid mixtures prepared with native CERs.Therefore, mixtures with synthetic CERs serve as an excellent tool for studying the effect of molecular architecture of CER subclasses on the lipid phase behavior. In SC the number of OH-groups in the head groups of CER subclasses varies. Furthermore, acylCERs with a linoleic acid chemically bound to a long acyl chain are also identified. The present study revealed that CER head group architecture affects the lateral packing and conformational ordering of the CER:CHOL:FFA mixtures. Furthermore, while the majority of the lipids form a crystalline packing, the linoleate moiety of the acylCERs participates in a "pseudo fluid" phase.

Pretreatment effects of moxibustion on the skin permeation of FITC-dextran

This study was conducted to evaluate the pretreatment effects of different in vivo moxibustion on the permeation of a model high molecular compound, FITC-dextran, with a mean molecular weight of 4 kDa (FD-4), through excised hairless rat skin. Direct or indirect moxibustion (0.10 g moxa) was pretreated consecutively 4 times every 5 min on the abdomen of hairless rats, and the permeation of FD-4 was determined through the excised skin over 8h from 30 min after starting the first moxibustion. This consecutive moxibustion pretreatment showed a significant increase in the skin temperature as well as skin permeation of FD-4 compared with the control group (no moxibustion pretreatment). Quantitative parameters showed an increase in skin temperature and skin permeation: the area under the skin temperature over control temperature-time curve during one burning cycle (5.0 min) (AUCtemp) or the maximum skin temperature during moxibustion (Tmax) and the cumulative amount of FD-4 permeated through skin over 8h (Q8) or steady-state flux were increased by moxibustion pretreatment. Then, the effect of pedestal thickness (distance from the moxa cylinder and skin surface), shape of the moxa cylinder (5mm diameter, 13 mm height or 9 mm diameter, 7 mm height), burning materials (moxa or aromatic incense), pedestal component (paper, potato or ginger) and moxibustion pretreatment method (direct or indirect moxibustion) was evaluated on the AUCtemp or Tmax and Q8 or flux. The amount of protein leached from the skin surface was also determined as an inflammatory index by this moxibustion pretreatment. When the skin temperature was increased to 60 degrees C, the Q8 or flux as well as the amount of protein leached were markedly increased. When the skin temperature was controlled to 42 to 45 degrees C by an adequate selection of pedestal thickness, shape of the moxa cylinder, burning materials, pedestal component and moxibustion pretreatment method, on the other hand, protein leaching remained unaltered, but the Q8 or flux significantly increased with the Tmax. This study thus provides credible evidence that moxibustion pretreatment increases the skin permeation of high molecular compounds.

Lipid organization in human and porcine stratum corneum differs widely, while lipid mixtures with porcine ceramides model human stratum corneum lipid organization very closely

The conformational disordering and lateral packing of lipids in porcine and human isolated stratum corneum (SC) was compared using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). It was shown that SC of both species differ markedly, porcine SC lipids being arranged predominantly in a hexagonal lattice while lipids in human SC are predominantly packed in the denser orthorhombic lattice. However, the lipid organization of equimolar ceramide:cholesterol:free fatty acid (CER:CHOL:FFA) mixtures prepared with isolated porcine CER or human CER is very similar, only the transition temperatures differed being slightly lower in mixtures with porcine CER. Therefore, the difference in lateral packing between human and porcine stratum corneum is not due to the difference in CER composition. Furthermore, it is possible to use more readily available porcine CER in model lipid mixtures to mimic lipid organization in human SC. As the equimolar porcine CER:CHOL:FFA mixtures closely mimic the lipid organization in human SC, both human SC and this mixture were selected to examine the effect of glycerol on the lipid phase behaviour. It was found that high concentrations of glycerol change the lamellar organization slightly, while domains with an orthorhombic lateral packing are still observed.

Fatty acids influence "solid" phase formation in models of stratum corneum intercellular membranes

Stacked intercellular lipid membranes in the uppermost epidermal layer, the stratum corneum (SC), are responsible for skin's barrier function. These membranes are unique in composition, the major lipids being ceramides (Cer), cholesterol, and free fatty acids (FFA) in approximately equimolar proportions. Notably, SC lipids include chains much longer than those of most biological membranes. Previously we showed that Cer's small hydrophilic headgroup enabled SC model membranes composed of bovine brain ceramide (BBCer), cholesterol, and palmitic acid in equimolar proportion to solidify at pH 5.2. In order to determine the influence of FFA chain length on the phase behavior of such membranes, we used 2H NMR and FT-IR to study BBCer/cholesterol/FFA dispersions containing linear saturated FFA 14-22 carbons long. Independent of chain length, the solid phase dominated the FFA spectrum at physiological temperature. Upon heating, each dispersion underwent phase transitions to a liquid crystalline phase (only weakly evident for the membrane containing FFA-C22) and then to an isotropic phase. The phase behavior, the lipid mixing properties, and the transition temperatures are shown to depend strongly on FFA chain length. A distribution of FFA chain lengths is found in the SC and could be required for the coexistence of a proportion of solid lipids with some more fluid domains, which is known to be necessary for normal skin barrier function.

Role of ceramide structure and its microenvironment on the conformational order of model stratum corneum lipids mixtures: an approach by FTIR spectroscopy

The aim of this study is to investigate the influence of ceramide head group architecture and free fatty acid (another main class of stratum corneum lipids) or protein (keratin), on the lamellar organization of the ceramide auto-associated in model films mimicking lipid organization within the stratum corneum. FTIR spectroscopy is a powerful technique for investigating the structure of such systems. This technique has already been used to characterize phase transitions of the SC and of related model systems. As temperature is known to modify the conformational order of lipids, we used it as a variable parameter to monitor the differences in the conformational stability of ceramides. Our study included four ceramides: ceramide 2, 3, 5 and 6 which differ by their head group architecture. Two kinds of lipid-lipid interactions were studied: non-polar and polar. We noted some structural factors which participated to the organizational behavior: insaturation of alkyl chain, alpha-hydroxyl on fatty acid moiety and sphingosine or phytosphingosine head group. There is a direct interaction of palmitic acid on alkyl chains organization and a weak interaction with polar head group in presence of keratin, both provoking a destabilization of the ceramidic orthorhombic organization.

Cholesterol sulfate and Ca(2+) modulate the mixing properties of lipids in stratum corneum model mixtures

The influence of cholesterol sulfate (CS) and calcium on the phase behavior of lipid mixtures mimicking the stratum corneum (SC) lipids was examined using vibrational spectroscopy. Raman microspectrocopy showed that equimolar mixtures of ceramide, palmitic acid, and cholesterol underwent a phase transition in which, at low temperatures, lipids formed mainly a mosaic of microcrystalline phase-separated domains, and above 45 degrees C, a more fluid and disordered phase in which the three lipid species were more miscible. In the presence of Ca(2+), there was the formation of fatty acid-Ca(2+) complexes that led to domains stable on heating. Consequently, these lipid mixtures remained heterogeneous, and the fatty acid molecules were not extensively involved in the formation of the fluid lipid phase, which included mainly ceramide and cholesterol. However, the presence of CS displaced the association site of Ca(2+) ions and inhibited the formation of domains formed by the fatty acid molecules complexed with Ca(2+) ions. This work reveals that CS and Ca(2+) modulate the lipid mixing properties and the lipid order in SC lipid models. The balance in the equilibria involving Ca(2+), CS, and fatty acids is proposed to have an impact on the organization and the function of the epidermis.

Kinetics of Membrane Raft Formation: Fatty Acid Domains in Stratum Corneum Lipid Models

The major barrier to permeability in skin resides in the outermost layer of the epidermis, the stratum corneum (SC). The major SC lipid components are ceramides, free fatty acids, and cholesterol. Ternary mixtures containing these constituents are widely used for physicochemical characterization of the barrier. Prior X-ray diffraction and IR spectroscopy studies have revealed the existence of ordered lipid chains packed in orthorhombic subcells. To monitor the kinetics of formation of regions rich in fatty acids, the current study utilizes a modification of the method (J. Phys. Chem. 1992, 96, 10008) developed to monitor component demixing in n-alkane mixtures. The approach is based on changes in the scissoring or rocking mode contours in the IR spectra of (orthorhombically packed) ordered chains. In the current study, equimolar mixtures of ceramides (either non-hydroxy fatty acid sphingosine ceramide or alpha-hydroxy fatty acid sphingosine ceramide) with chain perdeuterated fatty acids (either palmitic or stearic acid) and cholesterol reveal a time evolution of the scissoring contour of the deuterated fatty acid chains following quenching from relatively high temperatures where random mixing occurs. Segregation of domains enriched in the fatty acid component is observed. The kinetics of segregation are sensitive to the quenching temperature and to the chemical composition of the mixture. The kinetic regimes are conveniently catalogued with a power law of the form P=Ktalpha where P is a (measured) property related to domain composition. The time scales for demixing in these experiments are similar to times observed in several studies that have tracked the restoration of the in vivo permeability barrier following nonthermal challenges to SC integrity. Further evidence for the physiological importance of the current measurements is the detection of these phases in native SC. The current work constitutes the first direct, structure-based determination of the kinetics of barrier formation in relevant skin lipid barrier models.

Interactions of oleic acid and model stratum corneum membranes as seen by 2H NMR

We have investigated the mechanism through which the penetration enhancer oleic acid acts on stratum corneum (SC) model membranes (bovine brain ceramide:cholesterol:palmitic acid, 1:1:1 molar ratio). We used solid state deuterium nuclear magnetic resonance to monitor such multilamellar SC dispersions containing either cholesterol-d(6), palmitic acid-d(31), or oleic acid-d(2) as a function of both fatty acid concentration (2:2:1:1 and 1:1:1:1 bovine brain ceramide:cholesterol:palmitic acid:oleic acid) and temperature (18-75 degrees C). Our results show that below 40 degrees C, oleic acid (OA) is in an 'isotropic' phase, indicating that it has not incorporated into the lamellar membrane phase. At and above the SC model membrane's crystalline to liquid crystalline melting temperature, T(m)=40-42 degrees C, OA interacts with lamellar SC membranes with a slight dependence on OA concentration. T(m) does not change upon the exposure of the SC model membrane to OA, nor do we see any significant change in membrane chain disorder as monitored by the labelled PA. However, the spectra of both the palmitic acid (PA) and cholesterol SC model membrane components contain an isotropic peak that grows with increasing temperature. Our results thus indicate that oleic acid extracts a fraction of the endogenous SC membrane components, promoting phase separation in the SC membrane system. Reducing the proportion of crystalline lipids and creating more permeable OA-rich domains is a plausible mechanism that explains how OA enhances transdermal penetration.

New advances on the functions of epidermal growth factor receptor and ceramides in skin cell differentiation, disorders and cancers

Recent advances in understanding of the biological functions of the epidermal growth factor and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGF-EGFR) system and ceramide production for the maintenance of skin integrity and barrier function are reported. In particular, the opposite roles of EGFR and ceramide cascades in epithelial keratinocyte proliferation, migration and terminal differentiation are described. Moreover, the functions of ceramides in the epidermal permeability barrier are reviewed. The alterations in EGFR signaling and ceramide metabolism, which might be involved in the etiopathogenesis of diverse skin disorders and cancers, are described. New progress in understanding of skin organization, which might provide the basis for the design of new transcutaneous drug delivery techniques as well as for the development of new therapies of skin disorders and cancers, are reported.

Influence of the lipid composition on the organization of skin lipid model mixtures: an infrared spectroscopy investigation

The polymorphism of the lipids of the stratum corneum (SC), the top layer of the epidermis, has a fundamental impact on the permeability properties of the skin barrier. In this work, we have examined by infrared spectroscopy the thermal behavior of model mixtures involving ceramide, palmitic acid and cholesterol, the three main components of the SC lipids, to gain a refined description of the participation of the various lipid species in the different phases observed as a function of temperature. The results show that below 40 degrees C ceramide, cholesterol and palmitic acid exist mainly in crystalline domains and the lipidic species show very limited miscibility. Between 40 and 50 degrees C, a transition from the crystalline to a liquid ordered (lo) phase occurs and it involves ceramides, cholesterol and palmitic acid. When the mixture has a high cholesterol content, this lo phase is stable up to 75 degrees C. For low cholesterol content, the mixtures undergo a second transition toward a more disordered phase which is likely not lamellar. The formation of these phases is critically dependent on the lipid composition and, therefore, it is likely that composition changes of SC lipids affect the phase behavior and, consequently, the skin barrier properties.

Effect of cholesterol on miscibility and phase behavior in binary mixtures with synthetic ceramide 2 and octadecanoic acid. Infrared studies

The three main lipid components of the stratum corneum, namely ceramides, free fatty acids and cholesterol, play a fundamental role in the maintenance of the skin barrier. The current investigation is aimed toward understanding the miscibility and intermolecular interactions of these lipids. Toward this end, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopic studies of the three possible equimolar binary mixtures of cholesterol, a synthetic non-hydroxylated fatty acid N-acyl sphingosine with a C18 chain length (N-stearoylsphingosine, approximating human ceramide 2), and stearic acid were undertaken. The thermotropic responses of the methylene stretching and scissoring vibrations were used to evaluate chain conformation and packing respectively. Selective perdeuteration, of either the stearic acid or the ceramide acid chains, permitted separate and simultaneous evaluation of the conformational order and packing properties of the sphingosine chain, the amide linked fatty acid chains and/or the stearic acid chain. Whereas cholesterol mixed well with ceramide at physiological temperatures, the stearic acid was miscible with the cholesterol only at relatively high temperatures where the fatty acid is disordered. A complex interaction between stearic acid and ceramide was detected. A separate fatty acid-rich phase persisted until at least 50 degrees C, whereas at higher temperatures the components appear to be quite miscible. However, a preferential association of the fatty acid with the ceramide base chain is indicated. None of the binary systems studied exhibit miscibility and interactions resembling those in the ternary mixtures of these substances, which is widely used to model stratum corneum. The role of cholesterol in controlling the miscibility characteristics in the ternary system is evident.

Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and differential scanning calorimetry studies of fatty acid homogeneous ceramide 2

Ceramides provide a major component of the barrier function of skin. An understanding of barrier organization requires a detailed characterization of ceramide phase behavior and molecular interactions. Toward this end, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) studies of ceramide 2 analogues (non-hydroxylated fatty acid N-acyl sphingosines) of specific chain lengths (C(14), C(16), C(18), C(20)) are presented. In addition, the molecular interactions of the individual chains in each molecule are elucidated through thermotropic FTIR studies of derivatives possessing perdeuterated fatty acid chains. DSC data showed a much smaller chain length variation (for the C(16), C(18), C(20) derivatives) in the main order-disorder transition temperature (approx. 93+/-1 degrees C) than is observed in the corresponding series of phosphatidylcholines, consistent with minimal ceramide hydration. The temperature dependence of the methylene stretching and scissoring modes revealed a solid-solid phase transition at 20-25 degrees C below the main order-disorder transition accompanied by chain packing alterations from orthorhombic-->hexagonal subcells. The chain packing transition was accompanied by enhanced penetration of water into the polar region. This was deduced from the temperature dependence of the amide I and II modes, which provide direct evidence for H-->D exchange. The CD(2) scissoring mode splitting of the deuterated fatty acid constituent of the C(16), C(18), C(20) chains revealed preferential segregation of microdomains (3-5 chains) of this species within the orthorhombic phase. In contrast, the sphingosine base chains appeared to be sufficiently separated so as to inhibit interchain vibrational coupling between them. FTIR spectroscopy provides a convenient means for characterizing domain formation, chain packing, and hydration sites of these phases, which are highly ordered under physiological conditions.

Morphological transitions of brain sphingomyelin are determined by the hydration protocol: ripples re-arrange in plane, and sponge-like networks disintegrate into small vesicles

The phase transition of hydrated brain sphingomyelin occurs at around 35 degrees C, which is close to the physiological temperature. Freeze-fracture electron microscopy is used to characterize different gel state morphologies in terms of solid-ordered and liquid-ordered phase states, according to the occurrence of ripples and other higher-dimensional bilayer deformations. Evidently, the natural mixed-chain sphingomyelin does not assume the flat L beta, phase but instead the rippled P beta, phase, with symmetric and asymmetric ripples as well as macroripples and an egg-carton pattern, depending on the incubation conditions. An unexpected difference was observed between samples that are hydrated above and below the phase transition temperature. When the lipid is hydrated at low temperature, a sponge-like network of bilayers is formed in the gel state, next to some normal lamellae. The network loses its ripples during cold-incubation, which indicates the formation of a liquid-ordered (lo) gel phase. Ripples re-appear upon warming and the sponge-like network disintegrates spontaneously and irreversibly into small vesicles above the phase transition.

Minimal radius of curvature of lipid bilayers in the gel phase state corresponds to the dimension of biomembrane structures "caveolae"

Caveolae are membrane invaginations with a radius of curvature in the range of 40 nm for the bulb; 10-15 nm is the minimal radius for lipid bilayers in the liquid-crystalline Lalpha (liquid-disordered: ld) phase state. A minimal radius of 20-30 nm could be detected for the gel phase state by analysis of convex-concave bilayer deformations. Circular protrusions with a diameter in the range of only about 40 nm are closed by a flat lid, and those with diameters of 60 nm or more are closed by hemispherical caps. These structures are found primarily in phosphatidylcholine/sterol mixtures, where the gel phase state "liquid ordered" (lo) has been introduced. As a further example the mixture of dimyristoylphosphatidylcholine (DMPC) with an unusual sterol (diflucortolon-21-valerat) is presented. In the usual hydration at temperatures above the phase transition the deformation requires an incubation at 4 degrees C for several weeks or months to form. Using a low temperature hydration procedure (at 4 degrees C), surprisingly bilayers of pure DMPC and DPPC (dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine) are found to deform in the same convex-concave manner, and this takes place within hours and days. The dependence on hydration protocol is also observed for formation of a sponge-like bilayer network with 30-35 nm radius of curvature in brain sphingomyelin and its mixtures with cholesterol. Caveolae are microdomains enriched in cholesterol and sphingomyelin and are simultaneously discussed to be in the lo state. Direct evidence by investigation of bilayers formed by the lipids isolated from caveolae is still lacking, but structures similar to caveolae which are in the gel phase state (very probably the lo state) are also formed by lipids extracted from bacterial membranes. A further analogy exists because both natural lipid mixtures (brain sphingomyelin and bacterial lipids) transform during heating from the curved bilayer structures into microvesicles above the phase transition. Internalization of caveolae is a process of vesicle formation.

A new look at lipid-membrane structure in relation to drug research

Lipid-bilayer membranes are key objects in drug research in relation to (i) interaction of drugs with membrane-bound receptors, (ii) drug targeting, penetration, and permeation of cell membranes, and (iii) use of liposomes in micro-encapsulation technologies for drug delivery. Rational design of new drugs and drug-delivery systems therefore requires insight into the physical properties of lipid-bilayer membranes. This mini-review provides a perspective on the current view of lipid-bilayer structure and dynamics based on information obtained from a variety of recent experimental and theoretical studies. Special attention is paid to trans-bilayer structure, lateral molecular organization of the lipid bilayer, lipid-mediated protein assembly, and lipid-bilayer permeability. It is argued that lipids play a major role in lipid membrane-organization and functionality.

Phase coexistence in cholesterol-fatty acid mixtures and the effect of the penetration enhancer Azone

Small and wide-angle X-ray diffraction was used to study the phase behaviour of cholesterol-fatty acid mixtures in an attempt to understand lipid interaction occurring in the stratum corneum, the outermost layer of skin. The effect of the penetration enhancer Azone was investigated as well. It was found that equimolar mixtures of cholesterol, palmitic acid and oleic acid (with the acids neutralised to 41 mol%) in 25% (wt/wt) water typically showed three phases at room temperature, two crystalline and one gel phase. The crystalline phases consisted mainly of palmitic acid:soap and cholesterol, respectively. The water present was unevenly distributed and was associated with the gel phase. Both cholesterol and palmitic acid seemed to be depleted from their crystalline phases by Azone. The electrostatic effects on titration of fatty acids in lamellar aggregates were calculated in view of the present results, and the effects of phase separation were discussed.

Intermolecular Interaction between a Synthetic Pseudoceramide and a Sterol-Combined Fatty Acid

To better understand the phase behavior of a pseudoceramide (SLE), a potential skin moisturizer and/or a drug carrier, we investigated the lipid-lipid interaction between SLE and a sterol-combined fatty acid (CEOS), which has a sterol ring and a carboxyl group in a molecule. X-ray analysis showed that a hexagonal packing (4.15 A spacing) and a liquid-like packing (4.5 A spacing) coexisted within the hydrocarbon chains of the SLE/CEOS (1/1 mole) lipid mixture. The structural characteristics were very similar to those of the SLE/stearic acid/cholesterol (1/1/1 mole) system, which was in a stable lamellar alpha-phase. However, in the SLE/stearic acid (1/1 mole) system, there was only a strong hexagonal reflection in the wide-angle X-ray profile. The melting enthalpy (23.9 kJ mol-1) and entropy (75.0 J mol-1 K-1) of the SLE/CEOS system were also smaller than those (DeltaHm = 43.9 kJ mol-1, DeltaSm = 131.6 J mol-1 K-1) of the SLE/stearic acid system. The X-ray data along with the DSC results suggested that the sterol ring of CEOS molecule contributed to the enhancement of molecular motion or the decrease in the molecular packing of lipids. A strong hydrogen bond between the carboxyl group of CEOS and the amide group of SLE molecule was also considered to be important for the formation of the stable alpha-phase, as suggested by FT-IR spectroscopy. Further, in the presence of water, the three artificial SC lipids, SLE/CEOS (1/1 mole), SLE/stearic acid/cholesterol (1/1/1 mole), and SLE/stearic acid (1/1 mole), were all capable of forming lamellar structures. Copyright 1997 Academic Press. Copyright 1997Academic Press

Thermotropic phase behavior of in vivo extracted human stratum corneum lipids

The thermotropic phase behavior of lipids extracted either in vivo from inner forearm (SCLE) or plantar callus (PC) was investigated by differential scanning calorimetry and small angle X-ray diffraction. PC composition was chromatographically modified (MPC) by eliminating the more polar lipids in order to evaluate their role. Analysis of composition confirms the potential use of PC as a source of stratum corneum lipids. MPC and SCLE exhibit similar differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) profiles with a main transition around 50 degrees C attributed to the solid-to-liquid phase transition of the ceramides. The absence of a transition around 50 degrees C for PC suggests the possible perturbation of ceramide packing by the significantly high proportion of phospholipids. X-ray data suggest a high miscibility of sebum components in stratum corneum lipids with possible modification of chain packing. The MPC patterns show a lipid phase separation which underscores the role of polar lipids in cholesterol/free fatty acids/sterol esters/ceramides structural cohesion.

Lipid domains and orthorhombic phases in model stratum corneum: evidence from Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy studies

A three component model for the lipid barrier of the stratum corneum (SC) consisting of ceramide III, cholesterol, and perdeuterated palmitic acid, has been characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. At physiological temperature the CD2 scissoring mode of the palmitic acid methylenes, and the CH2 rocking mode of the ceramide methylenes, are each split into two components. This indicates that both components exist in separate, conformationally ordered phases, probably with orthorhombic perpendicular subcells. The magnitude of the splitting indicates that the domains are at least 100 chains in size. The thermotropic behavior of the CD2 stretching vibrations demonstrates that conformational disordering of the palmitic acid commences at 42 degrees C with a transition midpoint of 50 degrees C. The CH2 stretching frequency indicates the ceramide chains remain ordered until 50 degrees C then disorder with a midpoint of 67 degrees C. The results provide a molecular characterization for the complex low temperature (10-40 degrees C) dynamic behavior suggested by recent 2H NMR experiments.

A novel approach to the understanding of human skin barrier function

The basis for externally caused skin disorders is penetration of the skin barrier. A recent model for the skin barrier, the domain mosaic model, based on current knowledge of the physics of lipid bilayer organization gave tentative explanations for several aspects of function. It is demonstrated here that a development of the model explains how the requirements are met for a water-tight structure that will still allow a controlled, minute loss of water, the perspiratio insensibilis, necessary for maintaining plasticity of the keratin. A major advantage of the extended model is that it allows an interpretation of the changes imposed on the structure when in contact with detergents and/or penetration enhancers.

The role of ceramides 1 and 2 in the stratum corneum lipid organisation

A mixture of ceramide 1 and ceramide 2 (CER(1 + 2)) was isolated from pig stratum corneum and mixed in various molar ratios with cholesterol (CHOL) or with CHOL and palmitic acid (PA). The mixtures were hydrated in a buffer solution of pH 5.0 and their phase behaviour was studied by wide- and small-angle X-ray diffraction. The small-angle diffraction curve of the CHOL/CER(1 + 2) mixture at a molar ratio of 0.4 revealed the presence of only one peak at a spacing of 6.7 nm. Increasing the amount of CHOL to a molar ratio of 0.6 was accompanied by a shift of this peak to a smaller spacing (5.7 nm) and the appearance of two weak peaks at 11.8 and 4.1 nm spacings. Increasing the CHOL content to an equimolar ratio resulted in the appearance of two lamellar phases with periodicities of 5.5 and 12 nm, respectively. In a CHOL/CER(1 + 2) mixture at a molar ratio of 2 the periodicities of the two phases were 5.6 and 12 nm, respectively. From these observations it was concluded that the CHOL/CER(1 + 2) mixtures exerted similar phase behaviour, as reported earlier for intact SC (Bouwstra et al. (1995) J. Lipid Res. 36, 496-504) and for mixtures (Bouwstra et al. (1996) J. Lipid Res., in press) prepared from CHOL and total ceramide fraction (CER) isolated from pig stratum corneum. However, in the CHOL/CER mixtures a lower relative amount of CHOL was required to acquire these lamellar phases, indicating that at low CHOL contents, CER 3, 4, 5 and 6 play a crucial role in the formation of the lamellar phases. Furthermore, the solubility of CHOL in the mixtures increased in the presence of CER 1, suggesting its important role for the barrier function of the skin. When palmitic acid (PA) was included, the phase behaviour of the CHOL/CER(1 + 2)/PA mixture was more complex. Next to two lamellar phases, an additional phase with a spacing of 3.77 nm was observed, never seen in intact stratum corneum. In the absence of CHOL, the wide-angle diffraction pattern of the CER(1 + 2) revealed one sharp reflection at 0.456 nm and two diffuse reflections at 0.430, 0.417 nm and 0.395 nm, indicating the presence of a crystalline sublattice. In an equimolar mixture of CHOL/CER(1 + 2) no sharp 0.456 nm reflection was observed indicating a more disordered packing. Furthermore, phase separation of CHOL occurred, this conclusion is based on the presence of reflections corresponding to polycrystalline cholesterol monohydrate. These findings indicate that the lateral packing of mixtures of CHOL/CER(1 + 2) is more complex than that of the CHOL/CER mixtures that reveals a hexagonal lateral packing.

Optimization of physiological lipid mixtures for barrier repair

Three stratum corneum lipids, ceramides, cholesterol (CHOL), and free fatty acids (FA), are required for permeability barrier homeostasis. Recent studies have shown that application of one or two of these lipids to perturbed skin delays barrier recovery; only equimolar mixtures allow normal recovery. We asked here whether any physiological lipid mixtures improve barrier repair, as assessed by transepidermal water loss. Whereas an equimolar ratio of ceramides, CHOL, and FA (either the essential fatty acid, linoleic acid, or the nonessential FAs, palmitic or stearic acids) allows normal repair, further acceleration of barrier repair occurs as the ratio of any of these ingredients is increased up to 3-fold. Similar preliminary results were obtained in damaged human skin. Likewise, while acylceramides alone delay barrier recovery, acylceramides: CHOL mixtures within a specific range of molar rations dramatically improve barrier repair. Furthermore, glycosyl ceramides, sphingomyelin, and triglycerides substitute effectively for ceramides and FA, respectively, but neither phospholipids nor cholesterol esters substitute for FA and CHOL, respectively. These studies show the specific requirements of selected stratum corneum lipid mixtures for optimized barrier repair in murine skin, with further validation in human skin. Utilization of physiologic lipids according to these parameters could lead to new forms of topical therapy for dermatoses (e.g., psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, and irritant dermatitis) triggered by abnormal barrier function.

Phases and phase transitions of the sphingolipids

LIPIDAT is a computerized database providing access to the wealth of information scattered throughout the literature concerning synthetic and biologically derived polar lipid polymorphic and mesomorphic phase behavior. Herein, we present a review of the LIPIDAT data subset referring to sphingolipids together with an analysis of these data. It includes data collected over a 40-year period and consists of 867 records obtained from 112 articles in 25 different journals. An analysis of these data has allowed us to identify trends in hydrated sphingolipid phase behavior reflecting differences in fatty acyl chain length, saturation and hydroxylation, head group type, and sphingoid base identity. Information on the mesomorphism of biologically-derived and dry sphingolipids is also presented. This review includes 161 references.

Models of stratum corneum intercellular membranes: 2H NMR of macroscopically oriented multilayers

Deuterium NMR was used to characterize model membrane systems approximating the composition of the intercellular lipid lamellae of mammalian stratum corneum (SC). The SC models, equimolar mixtures of ceramide:cholesterol:palmitic acid (CER:CHOL:PA) at pH 5.2, were contrasted with the sphingomyelin:CHOL:PA (SPM:CHOL:PA) system, where the SPM differs from the CER only in the presence of a phosphocholine headgroup. The lipids were prepared both as oriented samples and as multilamellar dispersions, and contained either perdeuterated palmitic acid (PA-d31) or [2,2,3,4,6-2H5]CHOL (CHOL-d5). SPM:CHOL:PA-d31 formed liquid-ordered membranes over a wide range of temperatures, with a maximum order parameter of approximately 0.4 at 50 degrees C for positions C3-C10 (the plateau region). The quadrupolar splitting at C2 was significantly smaller, suggesting an orientational change at this position, possibly because of hydrogen bonding with water and/or other surface components. A comparison of the longitudinal relaxation times obtained at theta = 0 degrees and 90 degrees (where theta is the angle between the normal to the glass plates and the magnetic field) revealed a significant T1Z anisotropy for all positions. In contrast to the behavior observed with the SPM system, lipid mixtures containing CER exhibited a complex polymorphism. Between 20 and 50 degrees C, a significant portion of the entire membrane (as monitored by both PA-d31 and CHOL-d5) was found to exist as a solid phase, with the remainder either a gel or liquid-ordered phase. The proportion of solid decreased as the temperature was increased and disappeared entirely above 50 degrees C. Between 50 and 70 degrees C, the membrane underwent a liquid-ordered to isotropic phase transition. These transitions were reversible but displayed considerable hysteresis, especially the conversion from a fluid phase to solid. The order profiles, relaxation behavior, and angular dependence of these parameters suggest strongly that both the liquid-ordered CER- and SPM-membranes are bilayers. The unusual phase behavior observed for the CER-system, particularly the observation of solid-phase lipid at physiological temperatures, may provide insight into the functioning of the permeability barrier of stratum corneum.

Polymorphism in stratum corneum lipids

Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) was employed to investigate the thermotropic phase behavior of stratum corneum lipid multilamellae. Stratum corneum (SC), the uppermost layer of mammalian skin, is unusual in many respects. It has been demonstrated that the lipids of the stratum corneum provide the primary electrical and transport resistance in the skin. These lipids are unusual in their composition, structure and localization; they contain only cholesterol, fatty acids and ceramides and they form broad, multi-lamellar sheets which are located extracellularly. The FTIR results from both the symmetric CH2 stretching and the CH2 scissoring vibrations suggest that the SC lipids exhibit polymorphic phase behavior below the main phase transition temperature. The multiple phases are most likely crystalline mixtures of different alkyl chain packings, along with solid-liquid phases. Similarities between the FTIR results reported here for SC lipids and those obtained for cholesterol-containing gel phase phospholipids suggest that the non-uniform distribution of cholesterol occurs in each system.