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 therapies targeting receptors or enzymes. Alzheimer's disease is an example where traditional approaches thus far have been proven unsuccessful. With bacteria becoming resistant to more and more antibiotics, potential membrane based antibiotics provide an alternative route with great potential. Here, we provide a perspective on the basic mechanisms how physical membrane properties can affect diseases and the therapeutic potential of changing membrane lipid composition and properties to target those diseases. Neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease, and infectious diseases, are prime examples among many others where the so-called Membrane-Lipid Therapy shows great potential for the development of new drugs and new therapies.