Cell Membrane Lipid Composition in Relation to Physical Properties and Function: A Methodological Study

Abstract

Abnormalities on membrane function are widespread in many diseased states. It has been for some time postulated that these abnormalities are not due to the membrane proteins themselves but the matrix surrounding them; the phospholipid bilayer. The composition of the membrane affects its fluidity, which in turn affects its function. This composition is complex and although methods have been published which examine some aspects, few have succeed in providing a comprehensive analysis. This was the principle aim of the current study