This paper studies the fusogenicity of cationic liposomes in relation to
their surface distribution of cationic lipids and utilizes membrane phase
separation to control this surface distribution. It is found that concentrating
the cationic lipids into small surface patches on liposomes, through
phase-separation, can enhance liposome's fusogenicity. Further concentrating
these lipids into smaller patches on the surface of liposomes led to an
increased level of fusogenicity. These experimental findings are supported by
numerical simulations using a mathematical model for phase-separated charged
liposomes. Findings of this study may be used for design and development of
highly fusogenic liposomes with minimal level of toxicity