How early cell membranes may have shaped the origins of life
A new study suggests that physical properties guided life before genes did. Phospholipids with more unsaturated bonds were more likely to merge and grow under freeze-thaw cycles.
Membrane Biophysics
Articles tagged with Membrane Biophysics
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CiQUS secures two new European Research Council projects in the 2025 Consolidator Grant call
CiQUS researcher Julián Bergueiro's project ChiroPore aims to develop selective molecular transport across membranes, while Sara Abalde-Cela's OBSERVER project studies cell-cell communication as a dynamic process. Both projects have the potential to impact biomedicine, chemistry, and biotechnology
New building blocks of cell communication: How an invisible “cap” could control electrical synapses
A ring-shaped 'cap' has been found to regulate the connection of gap junctions, enabling the direct exchange of information between cells. This discovery may hold implications for controlling electrical signals in the heart or intestine.
Microscopic pores in brain cells may be a key to Parkinson’s
A new study from Aarhus University reveals microscopic pores in brain cells formed by toxic α-synuclein oligomers, which constantly open and close like tiny revolving doors. This dynamic behavior may help explain why brain cells don't die immediately, but further research is needed to replicate the findings in biological tissue.
Chinese scientists develop high-performance iron catalyst for fuel cells
A team of Chinese scientists has developed a high-performance iron-based catalyst for proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs), which could potentially reduce reliance on scarce and expensive platinum. The new design enables record efficiency and long-term durability, achieving an oxygen reduction overpotential as low as 0.34 V.
Physicists decode mysterious membrane behavior
Researchers identify packing density as key factor affecting membrane elasticity, offering new insights into homeostasis and cellular behavior. This discovery has significant implications for drug delivery applications and the development of lifelike artificial cells.
Membrane or metabolism, which came first?
Scientists have found a way to simulate metabolic processes in the absence of cell membranes using heat flow across thin, water-filled pores. This breakthrough provides new insights into the origin of life and offers approaches to biotechnology for creating synthetic living entities.
How a propolis compound with health benefits interacts with cell membranes: Study reveals nymphaeol a in action
A new study reveals how nymphaeol A, a bioactive compound in propolis, behaves within complex biological membranes. The molecule spontaneously inserts into the membrane, altering its structure and increasing fluidity, which may enhance its therapeutic effectiveness.
New method revolutionizes beta-blocker production process
Researchers developed a novel amine-functionalized graphene oxide (NGO) membrane reactor for ultrafast synthesis of propranolol, achieving nearly 100% conversion and selectivity in under 4.63 seconds at 23°C. The NGO membrane exhibited higher catalytic flux and turnover frequency compared to the acidic graphene oxide (GO) membrane.
Controlling bacteria with light: from tackling antibiotic resistance to “bacterial robots”
Researchers at Politecnico di Milano have developed a system that allows bacteria to sense light and convert it into electrical signals without genetic modification. This method has the potential to develop next-generation antimicrobial platforms and biocompatible 'bacterial robots' for targeted drug delivery.
Triassic fossil reveals nature’s best jaw for hunting fast fish
Scientists have discovered a Triassic-era fossil with an elongated jaw structure, similar to modern-day pike and needlefish. The findings suggest that different species independently evolved similar jaws hundreds of millions of years apart, highlighting the universal problem-solving strategies in nature.
Under the hood: Probing the molecular mechanisms of metastasis
A team of researchers has revealed the molecular mechanisms underlying the binding of small extracellular vesicles to host cells, which could lead to the development of more effective cancer treatments. The study found that EVs primarily bind to laminin via CD151-associated integrin heterodimers and GM1, eliciting responses in recipien...
New research challenges understanding of cell membranes in mammals
Researchers discovered that mammalian membranes have drastically different phospholipid abundances between their two leaflets, contradicting a major assumption of cell biology. The asymmetry is enabled by cholesterol's unique properties, which act as a buffer to redistribute between the leaflets and maintain robust barriers.
Small messengers called extracellular vesicles deliver molecules between cells using protein signal
Researchers discovered a new process by which cancer cells use small extracellular vesicles to spread to healthy tissue. The study found that these vesicles are primarily internalized by clathrin-independent endocytosis via galectin-3, which is facilitated by an increase in intracellular calcium concentration.
TTUHSC’s Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences hosts 37th Student Research Week
The TTUHSC Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences hosted the 37th Student Research Week, showcasing student researchers' work and presentations from distinguished national speakers. The event featured an increase in abstract submissions and lightning talk sessions.
Gut bioelectricity provides a path for bad bacteria to cause diseases
A team of researchers at UC Davis Health discovered a novel bioelectrical mechanism that allows Salmonella bacteria to navigate the gut lining and find vulnerable entry points. The study found that Salmonella bacteria detect electric signals in FAE, which helps them move towards openings in the gut where they can enter.
Under pressure: how cells respond to physical stress
Researchers at UNIGE have discovered how yeast cells respond to physical stress on their membranes. Cryo-electron microscopy revealed that specific lipid domains can stabilize and trigger cellular responses to mechanical stimuli. This study sheds light on the role of membrane compartmentalization in cell survival.
Unlocking membrane-based He/H₂ separation with AI
Researchers used AI to investigate MOF-based membranes for helium extraction, revealing critical factors influencing separation performance. The study identified pore limiting diameter and void fraction as key physical features determining membrane selectivity and helium permeability.
Aston University receives £10m from Research England to establish the Aston Institute for Membrane Excellence
Aston University has established the Aston Institute for Membrane Excellence (AIME) with a £10m grant from Research England. The institute aims to develop novel biomimetic membranes through interdisciplinary collaboration between biology, physics, and chemistry.
Team explores role of STING – stimulator of interferon genes – in body’s innate immune system
Researchers provide new insights into STING's function in innate immunity, revealing its role as a scaffold that activates TBK1. They also found that cholesterol plays a crucial role in STING clustering and activation, offering a potential target for treating diseases associated with STING inflammation.
New target for antibiotics promises treatment for multi-drug resistant superbugs
Researchers have discovered a new target for antibiotics that could treat multi-drug resistant superbugs. The antibiotic AMC-109 affects the cell membrane of bacteria by disordering its organization, leading to the death of the bacterium. This approach may also break down resistance to old-fashioned antibiotics.
Phenomenal phytoplankton: Scientists uncover cellular process behind oxygen production
Researchers have uncovered a previously unknown process in marine phytoplankton that accounts for between 7% to 25% of all oxygen produced and carbon fixed in the ocean. This discovery sheds light on how tiny organisms contribute to global oxygen production, with potential implications for our understanding of evolution.
Biomembrane research findings could advance understanding of computing and human memory
Scientists discovered that an artificial cell membrane can exhibit long-term potentiation, a hallmark of biological learning and memory, persisting for many hours. This finding has the potential to revolutionize next-generation computing materials and architectures by merging functions of processing and memory in neuromorphic computers.
New study explains mechanisms of salt transport and could help treat cystic fibrosis
A recent study by Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center researchers has shed light on the mechanisms of salt transport across membrane barriers. The findings have significant implications for treating cystic fibrosis, a disease caused by mutations in three types of sodium-potassium pumps.
New study reveals that the yeast eps15-like endocytic protein Pan1p is a key player in endocytosis
Scientists have elucidated the regulatory functions of Pan1p, a key player in late-stage clathrin-mediated endocytosis. The protein drives actin assembly and disassembly, facilitating vesicle internalization.
Scientists identify ‘bottleneck’ in drug delivery pathways in stem cells
Researchers developed a mathematical model to predict the efficiency of nanoparticle delivery into cells, particularly in stem cells. They found that nanoparticles become trapped in bubble-like vesicles, preventing them from reaching their targets.
From outside to inside: A rapid and precise total assessment method for cells
A new method using four frequencies of applied voltage improves impedance cytometry for measuring cell size and shape, enabling faster and more accurate biological experiments. The technique reveals specific characteristics of living single cells without damaging them.
German Research Foundation approves funding for excellent research in JGU’s core research areas
The German Research Foundation has granted funding to Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz (JGU) and its strategic alliance partners for four years. Researchers in materials sciences, biophysics, and medicine are working on three collaborative projects with a total funding volume of EUR 35 million. The focus is on developing multiscale ...
A possible therapeutic approach to COVID-19
The article suggests a potential treatment option for COVID-19 by targeting SARS-CoV-2's interaction with ACE2 receptors. Combining DPP4 inhibitors and spironolactone may mitigate COVID-19 complications and infections without adverse side effects.
Water filtration membranes morph like cells
Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a new type of water filtration membrane that mimics the natural process of morphogenesis. The membranes, made from soft polymers, exhibit complex 3D structures that allow them to efficiently separate pollutants from water.
How to get chloride ions into the cell
A study led by Przemyslaw Nogly at PSI has detailed insight into the mechanism of a light-driven chloride pump in bacteria, revealing how light energy converts to kinetic energy and transports chloride ions inside cells. The pump uses two molecular gates to ensure one-way transport, with the process taking around 100 milliseconds.
Hungry yeast are tiny, living thermometers
Researchers discovered that yeast cells can actively regulate temperature-dependent phase separation in their membranes. This process is crucial for membrane function and cell division. By adjusting the temperature, yeast cells can maintain a consistent state of phase separation, which may be essential for optimal cellular performance.
For the first time, DNA and proteins sensed by de novo-designed nanopore
Researchers in Japan have designed the first de novo-designed peptides that can form artificial nanopores to identify and enable single molecule-sorting of genetic material in a lipid membrane. The peptides can detect specific molecules, including DNA, and have the potential to mimic natural proteins' ability to detect specific proteins.
Molecular scales on biological membranes
Researchers have developed Mass-Sensitive Particle Tracking (MSPT) to analyze proteins on biological membranes in real-time. The method enables the determination of protein location and size changes without labeling, providing valuable insights into dynamic processes at the membrane.
Biophysical Society selects Student Research Achievement Award winners
The Biophysical Society has selected 31 student researchers who presented outstanding work at the annual meeting poster competition. These students demonstrated exceptional skills in bioenergetics, bioengineering, biological fluorescence, and other areas of biophysics.
Biophysicists modelled the effect of antiseptics on bacterial membranes
A team of biophysics developed a computer model that shows antiseptics cause changes in bacterial membrane structure, making them weaker and more susceptible to external factors. The study's results can help combat bacterial resistance by optimizing antiseptic use and developing new agents.
Enrico Gratton to receive 2019 BPS Avanti Award in Lipids
Enrico Gratton, a renowned researcher in lipid biophysics, will receive the 2019 Avanti Award. His pioneering work has led to significant discoveries on membrane heterogeneity and nanodomains, advancing our understanding of biological membranes.
The glue that keeps cells together
A study published in Nature Physics reveals that small changes in physical parameters can significantly impact the formation and growth of cell-cell contacts. The researchers used computer simulations and experiments to investigate the biophysicics of cadherin proteins, which play a crucial role in maintaining cellular bonds.