In the last decade, the perception of cell membrane structure and dynamics has changed with the introduction of the concept of lateral heterogeneity, or phase separation of lipid molecules in the cell membrane. Studies have shown that these microdomains could serve as platforms for signaling transmission by selectively including or excluding the signaling proteins. However, the dynamics of these microdomains is still poorly understood and controversial.

The enzyme, Sphingomyelinase (SMase), can turn sphingomyelin to ceramide on cell membranes. This enzymatic reaction has been found to be a universal upstream event for various apoptosis signaling pathways and the formed ceramide has been found to have strong ability to influence the membrane phase behavior.

In this study, the dynamics of microdomains induced by SMase enzymatic reaction are investigated by using a model membrane array in a microfluidic device. The experimental approach provides high spatial-temporal resolution along with good control of reaction conditions. The time scale and spatial morphology processes in the lipid membrane reflect behavior observed in biological systems. The reported studies provide insight into mechanisms underlying the complex spatial and temporal morphology evolution resulting from the enzymatic reactions and dynamics of the lipid membrane.