Effect of C₆₀ on solid supported lipid bilayers

We show that water-soluble fullerenes accumulate on the surface of zwitterionic and cationic supported bilayers to different extents. We propose on the basis of bilayer thicknesses, phase-transition temperatures, and fullerene movement that the water-soluble fullerenes do not penetrate into the hydrocarbon tails of supported bilayers. These findings are important to toxicity issues concerning fullerene materials and the development of decorated lipid bilayers for future drug delivery or sensor application.