Effect of n-alkanes on membranes in lipid-water systems

The changes in leaflet thickness and surface area per lipid molecule as a function of added amount of $\text{n-}\text{alkane}$ solvents have been studied in a number of lipid water systems by low angle X-ray diffraction techniques. The most probable site of accumulation of the $\text{n-}\text{alkane}$ is identified as the middle of the leaflet as opposed to intercalation with lipid hydrocarbon chains. Adsorption of $\text{n-}\text{alkane}$ depends on alkyl chain length and the organisation of the lipid hydrocarbon chains in the lipid water phases. Attention is drawn to the possible relationship between these results, the effect of $\text{n-}\text{alkanes}$ on isolated lipid bilayers and their effects as anaesthetics.