Exploring transmembrane diffusion pathways with molecular dynamics

Physiology (Bethesda). 2010 Jun;25(3):142-54. doi: 10.1152/physiol.00046.2009.

Abstract

Transmembrane exchange of materials is a fundamental process in biology. Molecular dynamics provides a powerful method to investigate in great detail various aspects of the phenomenon, particularly the permeation of small uncharged molecules, which continues to pose a challenge to experimental studies. We will discuss some of the recent simulation studies investigating the role of lipid-mediated and protein-mediated mechanisms in permeation of water and gas molecules across the membrane.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Aquaporins / physiology
  • Biological Transport / physiology
  • Cell Membrane Permeability / physiology*
  • Gases
  • Humans
  • Lipid Bilayers
  • Membrane Proteins / physiology
  • Molecular Dynamics Simulation*
  • Water

Substances

  • Aquaporins
  • Gases
  • Lipid Bilayers
  • Membrane Proteins
  • Water