Shape optimization in lipid nanotube networks

Eur Phys J E Soft Matter. 2008 Jul;26(3):295-300. doi: 10.1140/epje/i2007-10325-x. Epub 2008 May 26.

Abstract

Starting from a high surface free-energy state, lipid nanotube networks are capable to self-organize into tree-like structures with particular geometrical features. In this work we analyze the process of self-organization in such networks, and report a strong similarity to the Euclidian Steiner Tree Problem (ESTP). ESTP is a well-known NP-hard optimization problem of finding a network connecting a given set of terminal points on a plane, allowing addition of auxiliary points, with the overall objective to minimize the total network length. The present study shows that aggregate lipid structures self-organize into geometries that correspond to locally optimal solutions to such problems.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Lipids / chemistry*
  • Liposomes / chemistry*
  • Microscopy, Fluorescence
  • Nanotubes / chemistry*
  • Nanotubes / ultrastructure
  • Surface Properties
  • Thermodynamics

Substances

  • Lipids
  • Liposomes