Evaluation of the Interaction of Propranolol Hydrochloride with Model Biomembranes

Surfactancy effects of poorly water soluble drugs are relatively unexplored compared with their primary mode of action involving membrane transporters. Specific drug interactions with certain lipids are understood to take place at much lower drug concentrations than are needed for their primary therapeutic effect. Our interest is to characterise the structure-function relationship of a series of structurally-related drugs – beta blockers. We have started to acquire surface pressure and ellipsometry data on the interactions of propranolol hydrochloride with model mammalian membranes. Now we require missing information from neutron reflectometry on the extent of interaction, degree of hydration and location of the drug in the model biomembranes. The data will provide the structural foundation for our project and contribute to our understanding of the role of drug-lipid interactions.