My research concerns the molecular mechanisms whereby cells control their shape, motility, deformability and the structural integrity of their membranes. Metabolic control of interprotein and protein-lipid interactions is studied by a variety of biochemical, spectroscopic and radiochemical techniques, including fluorescence and epr spectrometry, autoradiography and electron microscopy. The role of lipid metabolism and transport in regulating the fluid dynamics of cell suspensions (red blood cells, platelets, lymphocytes) is examined using circulating cells and cells grown in culture. Cell-cell and cell-liposome interactions are studied using model membrane systems with widely differing physical properties. Complexes of liposomes and encapsulated viruses are used as selective vectors to deliver water-soluble compounds across the membranes of intact cells. The particular projects described in the listed publications have as a common goal an understanding of the molecular workings of the cell membrane.

1) "Selective Virus-mediated Intracellular Delivery of Membrane-Impermeant Compounds by means of Plasma Membrane Vesicles," G. Trigiante and W.H. Huestis, Antiviral Research, 45, 211-221 (2000).

2) "Resolution of the Paradox of Red Cell Shape Changes in Low and High pH," M. Gedde and W.H. Huestis, BBA Biomembranes, 1417, 246-253, (1999).

3) "Interactions of a Vesicular Stomatitis Virus G Protein Fragment with Phosphatidylserine: Nmr and Fluorescences Studies," M.P. Hall, K.K. Burson and W.H. Huestis, BBA Biomembranes, 1415, 101-113, (1998).

4) "Red Blood Cell Lipids for Immiscible Liquids," S.L. Keller, W.H. Pitcher III, W.H. Huestis and H.M. McConnell, Phys Rev. Letters, 81, 5019-5022, (1998).

5) "Membrane Potential and Human Erythrocyte Shapes," M. Maulucci-Gedde and W.H. Huestis, Biophys. J., 72, 1220-1233, (1997).