Influence of lipids on protein-mediated transmembrane transport

Abstract

abstract: Transmembrane proteins are responsible for transporting ions and small molecules across the hydrophobic region of the cell membrane. We are reviewing the evidence for regulation of these transport processes by interactions with the lipids of the membrane. We focus on ion channels, including potassium channels, mechanosensitive and pentameric ligand gated ion channels, and active transporters, including pumps, sodium or proton driven secondary transporters and ABC transporters. For ion channels it has been convincingly shown that specific lipid-protein interactions can directly affect their function. In some cases, a combined approach of molecular and structural biology together with computer simulations has revealed the molecular mechanisms. There are also many transporters whose activity depends on lipids but understanding of the molecular mechanisms is only beginning.“NOTICE: this is the author’s version of a work that was accepted for publication in Chemistry and Physics of Lipids. Changes resulting from the publishing process, such as peer review, editing, corrections, structural formatting, and other quality control mechanisms may not be reflected in this document. Changes may have been made to this work since it was submitted for publication. A definitive version was subsequently published in Chemistry and Physics of Lipids, Volume 169, April 2013, Pages 57–71. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.chemphyslip.2013.02.007