Describes the properties of cellular membranes and their relationship with fundamental biological processes. This book provides insight on the chemistry, structures, model systems, and techniques employed for studying membrane properties and processes. A major focus is on the prominence of membranes in diverse physiological processes and disease, as well as applications of membranes and biomimetic membrane systems in varied disciplines. The book aims to illuminate the significance and beauty of membrane science, and serve both as an entry point for scholars wishing to embark on membrane research, as well as scientists already working in the field.

Auteur

Raz Jelinek, Ben Gurion University, Beer Sheva, Israel.

Contenu

1.Molecular components and structure
2.Biological and chemical functions
3.Membrane-associated proteins
a.Transmembrane proteins
b.Ion channels
c.Receptors and transporters
4.Membrane interactions
a.Antimicrobial peptides
b.Amyloid proteins
c.Viruses and viral proteins
d.Pharmaceutical compounds
5.Biophysical studies of membranes
a.Biomimetic membranes and membrane models
b.Spectroscopic techniques for membrane analysis
c.Microscopy and imaging
6.Membranes and biomedicine
a.Overcoming physiological membrane barriers
b.Membrane targeting in pharmaceutics
c.Future directions
7.Conclusions