A new look at lipid-membrane structure in relation to drug research.
Lipid-bilayer membranes are key objects in drug research in relation to (i) interaction of drugs with membrane-bound receptors, (ii) drug targeting, penetration, and permeation of cell membranes, and (iii) use of liposomes in micro-encapsulation technologies for drug delivery. Rational design of new drugs and drug-delivery systems therefore requires insight into the physical properties of lipid-bilayer membranes. This mini-review provides a perspective on the current view of lipid-bilayer structure and dynamics based on information obtained from a variety of recent experimental and theoretical studies. Special attention is paid to trans-bilayer structure, lateral molecular organization of the lipid bilayer, lipid-mediated protein assembly, and lipid-bilayer permeability. It is argued that lipids play a major role in lipid membrane-organization and functionality.
Mouritsen
O G
OG
Department of Chemistry, Technical University of Denmark, Lyngby. ogm@kemi.dtu.dk
Jørgensen
K
K
D000818:Animals; D002462:Cell Membrane / Q000187:drug effects*; D004337:Drug Carriers; D006801:Humans; D008051:Lipid Bilayers / Q000737:chemistry*; D008081:Liposomes; D008563:Membrane Lipids / Q000737:chemistry; D008565:Membrane Proteins / Q000737:chemistry; D010539:Permeability
D004337:Drug Carriers; D008051:Lipid Bilayers; D008081:Liposomes; D008563:Membrane Lipids; D008565:Membrane Proteins