Cationic surfactant-induced membrane disruption

Cationic surfactant-induced membrane disruption is a mechanism of cell membrane damage whereby surfactants with positive charges interact with negatively charged lipid components of cellular (often bacterial) membranes. The disruption occurs via electrostatic and hydrophobic interactions: the polar (cationic) head groups bind to negatively charged lipid head groups, and the hydrophobic alkyl chains embed into the lipid bilayer. This process alters membrane structure, increases permeability, and can ultimately cause cell lysis. This mechanism is widely exploited in disinfection, antimicrobial therapy, and design of nanocarriers for drug delivery, but also poses risks of cytotoxicity and environmental harm[1][2][5][6][7][8][9].

Other names

Cationic surfactant membrane permeabilizationmembrane lysis by cationic surfactantscationic amphiphile-induced membrane disruption

Electrostatic attraction of cationic surfactant to negatively charged lipid head groups. Integration of surfactant hydrophobic tails into the membrane bilayer. Disruption of membrane structure, leading to increased permeability, deformation, rupture, and leakage of cytoplasmic contents.