In connection with studies of transport of hazardous metals across model phospholipid membranes (PLMs), behavior of complexes of lead with phytochelatin PC2 has been examined. Using differential potentiometric stripping analysis (PSA, Chronopotentiometry) with different values of constant negative current, the release of free lead ions confirmed their labile behavior.
Similar conclusion resulted from voltammetry on silica gel modified carbon paste electrode. Diffusion controlled transport across a PLMs containing ionophore calcimycin (A23187) revealed 26 times more lead ions transported in case of Pb-phytochelatin complexes than in case of free lead ions.
For labile behavior, complex with two Pb atoms at phytochelatin molecule is responsible.