Manual On Membrane Lipids

Although previously thought to be merely passive structural components, membrane lipids have recently been found to be actively involved in cellular transport and signal transduction processes. Clear protocols for the study of membrane lipid properties, cellular transport or signal transduction are presented in this manual. Following a short introduction to membrane lipids, techniques for the isolation and extraction of membrane fractions, the analysis of the lipid composition, lipid turnover, and the involvement in signal transduction as well as the preparation of liposomes are described.

This book provides a concise description of the metabolic pathways by which lipids of animal and plant membranes are formed. The book emphasizes modulation of these pathways by hormones, diet, environmental stress, and other factors. This new edition is extensively revised, containing new material on topics such as lipid-mediated signal transduction and lipid-induced protein translocation. The new edition also features an entirely new chapter on lipids covalently bound to proteins. The book is excellent for all researchers and students interested in membrane lipid metabolism.

This detailed book explores examples of current in vitro and in silico techniques that are at the forefront of lipid membrane research today. Beginning with methods and strategies associated with the creation and use of lipid membrane models in various research settings, the volume continues with electrical impedance spectroscopy strategies and methods to identify how ions and proteins interact with model lipid bilayers, guidance on lipid bilayer in silico molecular dynamics modeling, novel techniques to explore lipid bilayer characteristics using neutron scattering, IR spectroscopy, and atomic force microscopy (AFM), as well as unique fluorescence techniques. Written in the highly successful Methods in Molecular Biology series style, chapters include introductions to their respective topics, lists of the necessary materials, step-by-step, readily reproducible laboratory protocols, and tips on troubleshooting and avoiding known pitfalls. Authoritative and cutting-edge, Membrane Lipids: Methods and Protocols serves as an ideal guide for researchers seeking to further investigate the often complicated world of lipid membrane biophysics.

This book presents a compendium of methodologies for the study of membrane lipids, varying from traditional lab bench experimentation to computer simulation and theoretical models. The volume provides a comprehensive set of techniques for studying membrane lipids with a strong biophysical emphasis. It compares the various available techniques including the pros and cons as seen by the experts.

The first and only book devoted entirely to MEMBRANE LIPID ASYMMETRY AND ITS BIOLOGICAL IMPLICATIONS Transmembrane Dynamics of Lipids is comprised of contributions from expert authors from leading research groups that present up-to-date quantitative data on the formation, stability, and biological consequences of the asymmetrical organization of lipids in cell membranes. Incorporating an impressive amount of new, previously uncollected data, the book examines transmembrane asymmetry and movement of lipids in biological membranes, and methods for the measurement of transmembrane lipid motion, emphasizing the role of lipid flippases and discusses biological functions associated with lipid asymmetry. In addition, it draws attention to important new discoveries in the field, such as the correlation between malfunction of lipid flippases and human diseases such as thrombosis and cancer. The book also addresses the manifold methods that are used to measure the rate of transmembrane movement of lipids in biological and model systems. The only guide to new discoveries regarding lipids in cell membranes, Transmembrane Dynamics of Lipids is designed to appeal to biophysicists, biochemists, and cellular and molecular biologists working in the growing field of membrane research.

This handbook provides a comprehensive overview of lipid membrane fundamentals and applications. It gives the fundamental physical and biochemical aspects of membrane-related processes in living cells, and then relates them to how scientists are building bioinspired, artifical membrane-based systems such as gene delivery vehicles and synthetic membrane interfaces. It highlights the driving mechanism behind lipid self-assembly, membrane shape evolution, and vesicle trafficing, as well as the role of lipid membrane composition in signalling and the structural aspects of membranes in cellular integrity. Key Features: Includes a broad overview on the role of lipids as structural components of membranes, energy storage molecules, and signaling molecules. Covers lipids in signaling and the role of lipids in everyday life, from diet and health to cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. Discusses applications in nanotechnology and biomedicine, including liposomes in drug discovery, lipids for in vivo therapeutics, lipid-based sensors, artificial biointerfaces, and synthetic polymers. Includes an exciting section that explores the practical use of Archae lipids, lipids and the origins of life, and future outlook for the field. This book is a great companion for professionals in physics, biochemistry, physical chemistry and material sciences.

The major lipid components of biological membranes can undergo many diverse and fascinating morphological rearrangements. Studies of these diverse phases and the manner in which they are formed tends to alter the properties of ordinary bilayer membranes. This book examines the structural and biological roles of lipids forming non-lamellar structures. Key Features * Characterization of non-lamellar structures * Protein activity and membrane properties * Analysis of membrane fusion * Affect of non-lamellar forming lipids on biological systems

This book provides a timely overview of analytical tools and methodological approaches for studying membrane lipids. It outlines the ground-breaking advances that have been made over the last two decades in high-throughput lipidomics, and in studying lipid-protein interactions, signalling pathways and the regulation of lipid metabolism. This user-friendly laboratory handbook is an ideal companion for membrane biologists, researchers, students, and clinicians alike. It is also well suited for teaching biochemistry, microbiology and biotechnology courses, making it a must-have for everyone whose work involves lipid research.