Do we underestimate the importance of water in cell biology?
Liquid water is a highly versatile material. Although it is formed from the tiniest of molecules, it can shape and control biomolecules. The hydrogen-bonding properties of water are crucial to this versatility, as they allow water to execute an intricate three-dimensional 'ballet', exchanging partners while retaining complex order and enduring effects. Water can generate small active clusters and macroscopic assemblies, which can both transmit information on different scales.
Chaplin
Martin
M
Department of Applied Science, London South Bank University, Borough Road, London SE1 0AA, UK. martin.chaplin@lsbu.ac.uk
D001692:Biological Transport; D002450:Cell Communication; D002477:Cells / Q000378:metabolism; D004579:Electron Transport; D006801:Humans; D006860:Hydrogen Bonding; D008958:Models, Molecular; D009696:Nucleic Acids / Q000737:chemistry; D017510:Protein Folding; D011506:Proteins / Q000737:chemistry; D011522:Protons; D014867:Water / Q000502:physiology*
D009696:Nucleic Acids; D011506:Proteins; D011522:Protons; D014867:Water