Model cell membranes: Discerning lipid and protein contributions in shaping the cell

• Current model membrane systems and key membrane protein properties are reviewed.
• Key examples for model membrane systems in terms of membrane properties are discussed.
• New trends and future prospects of model membrane systems are discussed.

The high complexity of biological membranes has motivated the development and application of a wide range of model membrane systems to study biochemical and biophysical aspects of membranes in situ under well defined conditions. The aim is to provide fundamental understanding of processes controlled by membrane structure, permeability and curvature as well as membrane proteins by using a wide range of biochemical, biophysical and microscopic techniques. This review gives an overview of some currently used model biomembrane systems. We will also discuss some key membrane protein properties that are relevant for protein–membrane interactions in terms of protein structure and how it is affected by membrane composition, phase behavior and curvature.

Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slide