Specific interactions of lipids with protein transmembrane segments

Principal investigator: Brügger

Recent data suggest that individual lipid species within cellular membrane bilayers can specifically interact with transmembrane domains of proteins, acting as cofactors for protein function. Employing novel chemical biology tools and lipid mass spectrometry, we aim at identifying and characterising specific protein-lipid interactions within the hydrophobic phase of the membrane. Our goal is to understand structural requirements for lipid selection and functional consequences of lipid binding.