Effect of Cholesterol and Ergosterol on the Electrical Response of Supported Lipid Bilayers: An Application of Kelvin Probe Force Microscopy

Atomic force microscopy is a powerful tool for imaging and characterizing micro and nano-structures, particularly in the realm of biological membranes and model systems such as cells and supported lipid bilayers. The lateral resolution of AFM in liquid environments, necessary for studying membrane interactions, poses a challenge. In this study, we explore the imaging of freeze-dried supported lipid bilayers allowing for the topographical imaging of supported lipid bilayers in air with higher resolution as well as the use of Kelvin Probe Force Microscopy to measure electrical properties. Despite non-physiological conditions, this technique offers unprecedented insights into the study of lipid bilayer structures, bridging the gap between resolution and experimental feasibility. This process underscores the potential of freeze-dried supported lipid bilayers in advancing our understanding of complex membrane dynamics and membrane interactions in diverse experimental settings. The ability to measure the electrical properties of lipid bilayers will greatly advance our understanding and determination of membrane properties and their interactions with proteins, drugs and toxins. A more complete understanding of the factor intervening in the interactions would lead to, for example, better drug development.