nanodomains

Nanodomains are nanoscale regions within a material that differ in composition, structure, or properties from their surroundings, with at least one characteristic dimension on the nanoscale (1–100 nm). In biology, nanodomains describe small, dynamic clusters of lipids and proteins within the plasma membrane that create functional islands influencing signaling, trafficking, and membrane mechanics. They are often enriched in cholesterol and sphingolipids and can organize receptors, ion channels, and cytoskeletal links. Nanodomains are typically transient, forming and dissolving on timescales of milliseconds to seconds, rather than static features.

In cell biology, nanodomains contribute to compartmentalization beyond coarse-grained membrane models and can modulate signal transduction by concentrating compatible effectors and restricting diffusion. Distinct from classical 'lipid rafts' as static entities, nanodomains are increasingly viewed as rapidly remodeling assemblies whose size and composition depend on cellular state and external stimuli. Techniques such as super-resolution fluorescence microscopy, single-particle tracking, and fluorescence correlation spectroscopy reveal their presence and dynamics.

Beyond biology, nanodomains are observed in materials science as nanoscale regions with different crystallography, composition, or polarization within a host material. Such domains are central to ferroelectrics, phase-separated polymers, and alloy systems, affecting properties like dielectric response, optical behavior, or mechanical strength.

Understanding nanodomains involves multidisciplinary methods, including imaging, spectroscopy, and theoretical modeling, to relate nanoscale organization to macroscopic function. Further research continues to clarify their formation mechanisms and roles in health and disease.