Membraanide

Membraanide is a term used in some scientific texts to describe amphiphilic compounds that interact with biological membranes. The word derives from 'membrane' and the suffix '-ide'. Because membraanide is not a standardized class, its exact definition varies among authors.

Membraanide are typically amphiphilic, with hydrophobic regions that insert into lipid bilayers and hydrophilic groups that remain aqueous.

Mechanistically, membraanide interactions can disrupt membranes by altering lipid packing, increasing permeability, or perturbing membrane proteins.

Applications of membraanide include tools for membrane biophysics studies, potential antimicrobial or antiviral agents, and components in drug-delivery systems that rely on membrane interaction.

Because the term is not standardized, it is prudent to consult the original sources to understand what a membraanide refers to in a given context.

See also: amphiphile, membrane-active agent, lipid bilayer.