Perspective on the role of the physical properties of membranes in neurodegenerative and infectious diseases

Cell membranes are dynamic and complex structures, and their composition and structure are major determinants of pathology. It is now commonly accepted that the membranes' physical properties, such as fluidity and thickness, are determining factors for permeability, partitioning of drug molecules, and protein aggregation. Membrane-interacting molecules can in some instances be expected to have a greater therapeutic potential than traditional …