Dresden 2026 – scientific programme
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CPP: Fachverband Chemische Physik und Polymerphysik
CPP 46: Poster II
CPP 46.4: Poster
Thursday, March 12, 2026, 09:30–11:30, P5
Biophysical Interaction of Steroid Hormones with Model Lipid Membranes — •Rabia Rabia1,2,3, Prashant Hitaishi1,2, Bridget Murphy1,2, and Julia Herzen3 — 1Institute of Experimental and Applied Physics, Kiel University, Leibnizstraße 19, Kiel, 24118, Germany — 2Ruprecht Haensel Laboratory, Deutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron DESY, Notkestraße 85, Hamburg, 22607, Germany — 3Technische Universität München
Menopause is characterized by declining 17βestradiol (E2), increased adiposity, reduced insulin sensitivity, and higher type 2 diabetes risk. Vasomotor symptoms, such as hot flushes and night sweats, significantly impair quality of life, and transdermal E2 provides effective relief at lower doses than oral therapy, with potentially fewer systemic risks. Despite its clinical benefits, the molecular mechanisms of E2 remain incompletely understood. While steroid hormones classically act via intracellular receptors to regulate gene transcription, they also interact directly with lipid membranes, influencing packing and elasticity. We studied βestradiol, progesterone, 17αethynylestradiol, and cholesterol in DPPC and POPC monolayers at the air water interface using Langmuir isotherms and surface elasticity measurements. E2 was found to expand molecular area and reduce packing density, increasing membrane elasticity. Planned X-ray measurements will further clarify how steroid-induced reorganization of lipid interfaces modulates downstream cellular signaling.
Keywords: Lipid Monolayers; Membrane biophysics; Steroid hormones; Vasomotor symptoms; Estradiol