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A New Look at Lipid-Membrane Structure in Relation to Drug Research

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Abstract

Lipid-bilayer membranes are key objects in drug research in relation to (i) interaction of drugs with membrane-bound receptors, (ii) drug targeting, penetration, and permeation of cell membranes, and (iii) use of liposomes in micro-encapsulation technologies for drug delivery. Rational design of new drugs and drug-delivery systems therefore requires insight into the physical properties of lipid-bilayer membranes. This mini-review provides a perspective on the current view of lipid-bilayer structure and dynamics based on information obtained from a variety of recent experimental and theoretical studies. Special attention is paid to trans-bilayer structure, lateral molecular organization of the lipid bilayer, lipid-mediated protein assembly, and lipid-bilayer permeability. It is argued that lipids play a major role in lipid membrane-organization and functionality.

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  1. Department of Chemistry, Technical University of Denmark, Building 206, DK-2800, Lyngby, Denmark

    Ole G. Mouritsen

  2. Department of Pharmaceutics, The Royal Danish School of Pharmacy, DK-2100, Copenhagen Ø, Denmark

    Kent Jørgensen

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  1. Ole G. Mouritsen
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Mouritsen, O.G., Jørgensen, K. A New Look at Lipid-Membrane Structure in Relation to Drug Research. Pharm Res 15, 1507–1519 (1998). https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1011986613392

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