Changes in inter-helical hydrogen bonding are associated with the
conformational dynamics of membrane proteins. The function of the protein
depends on the surrounding lipid membrane. Here we review through specific
examples how dynamical hydrogen bonds can ensure an elegant and efficient
mechanism of long-distance intra-protein and protein–lipid coupling,
contributing to the stability of discrete protein conformational substates and
to rapid propagation of structural perturbations. This article is part of a
Special Issue entitled: Protein Folding in Membranes