Peptide–Membrane Interactions : Faraday Discussion 232

This volume will address several related aspects of peptide interactions with membranes. It will consider model theoretical and experimental systems with relevance to fundamental questions in cell biology, including how peptides and proteins behave within biological membranes.

It is vital to improve our understanding of how macromolecules such as peptides interact with membranes. These processes are involved in protein folding, cell signalling, biogenesis, morphogenesis, disease and medical therapy. Next-generation synthetic biology goals will require a clearer understanding of how to control reticulated membrane structures in order to fabricate the supramolecular structures necessary for advanced synthesis and behaviour. This volume will address several related aspects of peptide interactions with membranes. It will consider model theoretical and experimental systems in order to define the ‘reaction space’ that is possible and where appropriate with relevance to fundamental questions in cell biology, including how peptides and proteins behave within biological membranes. The topics covered include:Theoretical and experimental comparisons of simple peptide-membrane systemsTheoretical and experimental studies of complex peptide-membrane systemsBehaviour and interactions of proteins and peptides with and within membranesPeptide-membrane interactions and biotechnology