Lipidendbindende

Lipidendbindende is a term used to describe the ability of a molecule to bind lipids. In biology, this property is most often discussed in relation to proteins and peptides that associate with cellular membranes or lipid carriers. Lipid binding can target proteins to membranes, regulate lipid signaling molecules, or facilitate lipid transport.

Binding interactions typically involve hydrophobic contacts with lipid acyl chains, electrostatic interactions with charged lipid headgroups (such as phosphatidylserine or phosphoinositides), and sometimes hydrogen bonding or coordination with divalent cations like calcium. The strength and specificity of binding depend on the lipid composition and the protein's binding surface.

Several protein domains specialize in lipid binding. PH domains bind phosphoinositides; C2 domains bind calcium-dependent phospholipids; ENTH and ANTH domains interact with phosphoinositides; FYVE domains recognize phosphatidylinositol 3-phosphate; START domains bind lipid ligands; and amphipathic helices can mediate membrane association.

Functions of lipid binding include targeting proteins to membranes, organizing signaling complexes, driving vesicle formation and trafficking, and participating in lipid metabolism and transport. Lipid binding can regulate enzyme activity by controlling localization and access to substrates.

Common methods to study lipid–protein interactions include liposome binding assays, surface plasmon resonance, isothermal titration calorimetry, and lipid–protein overlay techniques.