Membrane-modifying effect of taurine

The effect of taurine on membrane-associated processes was studied in rat erythrocytes and peritoneal mast cells. EPR with a spin probe 5-DS revealed a significant decrease in the order parameter S of membrane phospholipid acyl chains in vitro after incubation of erythrocytes with taurine (10 mM, 1 h). Increased susceptibility of the erythrocyte membrane to peroxide-induced lysis was also observed. These effects suggested decreased membrane microviscosity resulting from less dense packing of the phospholipids. The differential effects of taurine on stimulated Ca-dependent functional activity of peritoneal mast cells (histamine liberation) upon different ways of administration (oral, intraperitoneal, or intramuscular) suggest an indirect and complex mechanism of taurine action in the organism.