Interaction of β – N – oxalyl – L – α, β – diaminopropionic acid (ODAP) with Langmuir monolayers of DPPC, DPPG and cholesterol

β – N – Oxalyl – L – α, β – diaminopropionic acid (ODAP) is a primary neurotoxin present in the seeds of Lathyrussativus (Grass pea). It causes neurodegenerative disorders upon excessive and exclusive consumption. We have carried out the studies on interaction of ODAP molecules with Langmuir monolayers of DPPC, cholesterol and DPPG at air-water interface. Surface manometry studies are performed to study the interactions between ODAP and Langmuir monolayers, where in surface pressure as a function of time is monitored. We have observed that the interaction of ODAP with Langmuir monolayers of lipids results in oscillations of surface pressure as a function of time. These oscillations in surface pressure shows the presence of the non-linear phenomenon dependent on the changes of concentration of ODAP at the interface. Our studies help in understanding the mechanism of action of ODAP on cell membranes.