21 - Interactions of Biological Membranes and Structures

Abstract

This chapter presents a detailed study of the interactions of biological membranes and structures. The interactions of biomolecular assemblies are highly complex in nature. This chapter reviews how some of the forces arise in complex fluid and biological systems. It also examines how nonspecific interactions combine to give rise to highly specific interactions, and how they act together in regulating the organization and morphologies of biological structures. The chapter takes into consideration the nonequilibrium or dynamic aspects of these interactions since biological systems are living systems, and their interactions are never at equilibrium, even in the steady state where a constant supply of energy is required. The chapter begins with a discussion on van der Waals, electrostatic, and DLVO forces. It then explains the concepts of repulsive entropic forces, attractive depletion forces, and attractive hydrophobic forces. Interdependence of intermembranes and intramembrane forces in biological membranes and structures is then explained. The chapter concludes with a discussion on membrane fusion and bioadhesion.