Influence of perfluorocarbons on protein adsorption at Langmuir films

We propose a combined grazing incidence X-ray diffraction and X-ray reflectivity study on the effect of aerolized and gaseous perfluorocarbons (a- and gFCs) to protein adsorption at Langmuir films using different proteins, surface pressures and gas pressures at beamline ID10 of the ESRF. Aim of the proposed experiment is the determination of the lateral and vertical structure of model membranes of lung surfactant lipids like anionic DPPA and zwitterionic DPPC before and after protein adsorption and the influence of an overlying FC atmosphere to the protein adsorption behaviour. The substances have been selected based on their biomedical research interest. Especially a- and gFCs with a high vapour pressure are in focus of research as they represent a new approach to replace liquid FC ventilation and the unsafe use of the animal LS replacements to treat LS injuries or deficiency in adults and neonatal children. The combination of XRR and GID gives a comprehensive picture of the system.