Ca2+-induced fusion of cardiolipin/phosphatidylcholine vesicles monitored by mixing of aqueous contents.

The kinetics of Ca2+-induced fusion of large (0.1 micrometer) unilamellar cardiolipin/phosphatidylcholine (1:1) vesicles have been investigated by continuous monitoring of the mixing of the aqueous vesicle contents. In parallel, release of vesicle contents to the external medium has been followed. Initial fusion of the vesicles is non-leaky, release of vesicle contents to the external medium have been followed. Initial fusion of the vesicles is non-leaky, release of vesicle contents being largely a secondary phenomenon. The minimal Ca2+ concentration required for fusion in this system is approx. 9 mM. At higher Ca2+ concentrations fusion is extremely fast, occurring on the time scale of seconds.