The tug of war between Al3+ and Na+ for order–disorder transitions in lipid-A membranes

Lipid-A can exhibit antagonist/agonist immunomodulatory properties depending on its chemical compostion. Computational simulations provide insights into the role of Al³⁺ and Na⁺ cations on the physical properties of lipid-A aggregates, and guidance in the development of vaccine adjuvants capable of boosting the immune system with decreased reactogenicity.