Effect of salicylate on membrane electromechanics

The electromechanical properties of membranes regulate many of their functions. Certain molecules can modify the physical properties of the membrane. Salicylate, the metabolite of aspirin, is a small anionic molecule capable of interacting with lipids. We previously reported that salicylate softens membranes. In this study, we explore the relationship between the membrane expansivity modulus and the electroporation threshold voltage in giant unilamellar vesicles. The threshold voltage for membrane breakdown was found to decrease with increasing salicylate concentration. We also verified that vesicle membrane rupture threshold is lower for longer pulse durations, higher applied tension, and lower expansivity modulus. Salicylate´s ability to lower the electroporation threshold may have important biotechnological implications.