Synthetic Bilayer Membranes and Molecular Recognition

Synthetic bilayer membranes are constructed from a variety of synthetic amphiphiles, which include double-chain amphiphiles similar to biolipids, triple-chain amphiphiles, single-chain amphiphiles that contain rigid segments, and other related compounds. Bilayer formation can be confirmed by electron microscopic observation, differential scanning calorimetry, molecular weight measurement, etc. of aqueous dispersions. Synthetic bilayer membranes display physicochemical characteristics essentially identical with those of biolipid bilayers, and are advantageous for constructing molecular recognition systems. For instance, specific surface structures of some synthetic bilayers induce specific binding of dye molecules. Interaction of molecules and ions with surface receptors can cause changes in orientation and distribution of component molecules, which can be detected readily by spectroscopic and other means.