Studying Dynamics and Energetics of Membrane Protein Oligomerization using Single Molecule Fluorescence

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The cell wall, or cell membrane, is composed of a double-layered lipid film and proteins, functional macromolecules that control electrical signals and substrate transport in and out of the cell. Membrane proteins also sense external stimuli and trigger signaling cascades in the inside. Until recently, the lipid membrane itself was considered mainly a passive matrix that separates the cell interior from the exterior. However, recently, it became increasingly clear that the composition of the lipid membrane influences the functioning of the proteins. This also relates to our nutrition; compounds such as cholesterol and omega-3 are known to enter the lipid film, alter its properties and modulate protein function. Conversely, also the proteins embedded in the lipid membrane alter its phase behaviour and form.