Exploring the function of cell membranes through the movement of lipids!

Keywords: Cell membrane, biophysical chemistry, fluorescence spectroscopy measurement, fluorescence correlation spectroscopy, lipid bilayer.

The smallest structural unit of living organisms is the cell, which is covered by a cell membrane primarily composed of a lipid bilayer. This cell membrane functions as a barrier that separates the internal environment of the cell from the outside, while also contributing to the maintenance of life by allowing the uptake of molecules from the external environment as needed. In the special physiological functions of this cell membrane, the physical properties of the lipid bilayer, particularly its dynamics, are very important, and we believe that understanding the movement of lipids within the lipid bilayer will deepen our understanding of the cell membrane. In our laboratory, we are developing and applying new fluorescence spectroscopy methods to precisely analyze the movement of lipids within the lipid bilayer. We are conducting research daily with the aim of understanding the extraordinary functions of living organisms from the movements of small molecules that are invisible to the naked eye.

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