Theoretical mimicry of biomembranes
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
6-18-2009
Department
Department of Physics
Abstract
The study of membrane proteins requires a proper consideration of the specific environment provided by the biomembrane. The compositional complexity of this environment poses great challenges to all experimental and theoretical approaches. In this article a rather simple theoretical concept is discussed for its ability to mimic the biomembrane. The biomembrane is approximated by three mimicry solvents forming individual continuum layers of characteristic physical properties. Several specific structural problems are studied with a focus on the biological significance of such an approach. Our results support the general perception that the biomembrane is crucial for correct positioning and embedding of its constituents. The described model provides a semi-quantitative tool of potential interest to many problems in structural membrane biology.
Publication Title
FEBS Letters
Recommended Citation
Kar, P.,
Seel, M.,
Weidemann, T.,
&
Hofinger, S.
(2009).
Theoretical mimicry of biomembranes.
FEBS Letters,
583(12), 1909-1915.
http://doi.org/10.1016/j.febslet.2009.04.040
Retrieved from: https://digitalcommons.mtu.edu/michigantech-p/6397
