Application of Self-Consistent Field Theory to Self-Assembled Bilayer Membranes

TL;DR

This paper reviews how self-consistent field theory models the structure and mechanics of self-assembled bilayer membranes formed by amphiphilic molecules, providing a molecularly detailed understanding.

Contribution

It summarizes the formulation and application of self-consistent field theory to predict mechanical properties of bilayer membranes from molecular details.

Findings

Accurately predicts surface tension, bending moduli, and line tension of bilayers.

Demonstrates the applicability of the theory to flexible amphiphilic chains in solvents.

Provides a framework for understanding membrane mechanics at the molecular level.

Abstract

Bilayer membranes self-assembled from amphiphilic molecules such as lipids, surfactants and block copolymers are ubiquitous in biological and physiochemical systems. The shape and structure of bilayer membranes depend crucially on their mechanical properties such surface tension, bending moduli and line tension. Understanding how the molecular property of the amphiphiles determine the structure and mechanics of the self-assembled bilayers requires a molecularly detailed theoretical framework. The self-consistent field theory provides such a theoretical framework, which is capable of accurately predicting mechanical parameters of self-assembled bilayer membranes. In this mini review we summarize the formulation of the self-consistent field theory, as exemplified by a model system composed of flexible amphiphilic chains dissolved in hydrophilic polymeric solvents, and its application to the study of self-assembled bilayer membranes.