Interaction Between Proteins and Biological Membranes

This chapter focuses on the fundamental molecular interactions between proteins and biological membranes that are responsible for the formation and function of protein–lipid complexes. This chapter also discusses how various classes of membrane proteins utilize a specific combination of charged, polar, and hydrophobic amino acids to target distinct regions of membranes that harbor specific lipid species. Along with amino acid distribution and polarity, secondary and tertiary structures, as well as posttranslational lipid modifications, are some of the most important determinants of protein–membrane interactions. It is also described, using illustrative examples, how multiple protein- and lipid-based targeting motifs anchor peripheral proteins to membrane surfaces, and how unique structural and sequence features of transmembrane proteins underpin the functionally important conformational changes that often occur in the membrane environment.