The surface membrane of cells is studded with morphologically distinct regions, or domains, like microvilli, cell-cell junctions, and coated pits. Each of these domains is specialized for a particular function, such as nutrient absorption, cell-cell communication, and endocytosis. Lipid domains, which include caveolae and rafts, are one of the least understood membrane domains. These domains are high in cholesterol and sphingolipids, have a light buoyant density, and function in both endocytosis and cell signaling. A major mystery, however, is how resident molecules are targeted to lipid domains. Here, we propose that the molecular address for proteins targeted to lipid domains is a lipid shell.

https://science.sciencemag.org/content/sci/296/5574/1821.full.pdf

A role for lipid shells in targeting proteins to caveolae, rafts, and other lipid domains.

Cholesterol interactions with phospholipids in membranes.

http://www.columbia.edu/itc/gsas/g9600/2004/FeinmarkReadings/g_proteins_rafts.pdf

Lipid-dependent targeting of G proteins into rafts.

Do sterols reduce proton and sodium leaks through lipid bilayers

https://www.jbc.org/content/283/42/28005.full.pdf

The gregarious lipid droplet.

Biomembranes, R.B. Gennis, in: Molecular Structure and Function. Series: Springer Advanced Texts in Chemistry, 533 S.. Springer-Verlag, New York-Berlin-Heidelberg-London-Paris-Tokyo (1989), 142 Abb., zahlr. Tab. Preis: DM 98.

E. Müller

Papers

Biomembranes, R.B. Gennis, in: Molecular Structure and Function. Series: Springer Advanced Texts in Chemistry, 533 S.. Springer-Verlag, New York-Berlin-Heidelberg-London-Paris-Tokyo (1989), 142 Abb., zahlr. Tab. Preis: DM 98.