Physical studies of giant vesicles on optimizing the use of photo protective molecules of biological membranes

• Grant number: 12/05613-8
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: June 01, 2012
• End date: May 31, 2013
• Field of knowledge: Biological Sciences - Biophysics
• Principal Investigator: Omar Mertins
• Grantee: Guilherme Godtsfriedt dos Reis
• Host Institution: Instituto de Física (IF). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Paulo , SP, Brazil

Abstract

With this project, we intend to enhance undergraduate research and support studies of photoprotection of biological membrane models, which is one of the topics of research in progress under the coordination of Prof. Rosangela Itri and developed in the post doctoral project of Omar Mertins. Through microscopic monitoring and sometimes with use of mechanical and electrical techniques coupled with optical microscopy, giant unilamellar vesicles of different molecular compositions are photo irradiated in the presence of promoters of lipid oxidations (such as methylene blue). The lipid damage will be minimized with the use of molecules able to compete in complexation or inactivation of reactive oxygen radicals, generated in the dispersion media of the vesicles. The physical properties and stability of the vesicles membrane will be evaluated according to the type, concentration and protection ability of the photoprotective molecules derived from flavonoids and carotenoids. The academic student will be guided in carrying out experiments as well as in all steps inherent to research methods related to the project, aiming its qualifying in scientific training.(AU)