Area compressibility moduli of the monolayer leaflets of asymmetric bilayers from simulations

Abstract

Extraction from simulations of the area compressibility moduli of the monolayers in a bilayer is considered theoretically. A statistical mechanical derivation shows that the bilayer modulus is the sum of the two monolayer moduli, as is often supposed, but contrary to a recent study. Seemingly plausible assumptions regarding fluctuations are tested rigorously. Prospects for future research are discussed.\n\nSignificanceIt is important to describe the properties of both leaflets of generally asymmetric Biomembranes. One such property is the area compressibility modulus. This MS rigorously establishes the fundamental theory that corrects a recent BJ paper. The theory is straightforward but substantial enough that it was not readily apparent why the previous theory was incorrect. This is why this MS should be considered a new paper and not just a comment. Another reason is that this MS points to an alternative method, used only once previously, for extracting the leaflet area compressibility modulus from simulations.