[Change in the state of a lecithin molecular layer at the heptane-aqueous KCl solutions interface on the introduction of the ionophore, valinomycin].

The influence of ionophore--valinomycin on the organization of the lipid layer located between a heptane solution of lecithin and KCl water solutions of different concentrations has been shown by measurements of the interfacial tension. Specific changes in the interfacial tension found at high KCl concentrations are related to the transition of valinomycin into a form of its complex with K+-ion. A conclusion on the difference in the lipid layer organisation in the presence of the neutral ionophore and its charged complex has been made.