Structure and Dynamics of Membranous Interfaces

Leading scientists review and explain the state of the science

With chapters contributed by pioneers and leading scientists in the field, this carefullyedited work provides state-of-the-science reviews focusing on the structural and dynamic aspects of diverse membranous systems. In addition to learning the significanceof the latest discoveries in membranous systems, readers also learn the most advanced techniques used to study these complex systems. Moreover, the text brings together a tremendous array of both published and unpublished data, offering an unprecedented reference and resource to fuel further research.

Integrating findings from computer science, biophysics, surface science, physical chemistry, nanotechnology, biochemistry, chemical engineering, materials science, and clinical physiology, this book offers a truly multidisciplinary perspective. Its fifteen chapters are organized into three main sections:
* Membrane Structure, focusing on direct experimental studies to determine the polymorphic structures of model and natural membranous systems
* Dynamics & Molecular Events at Membrane Interfaces, examining how membrane structures are formed and evolve into other superstructures
* Complex Membranous Systems, exploring bacterial and neural membranes, lung surfactants, and other colloidal systems

Structure and Dynamics of Membranous Interfaces offers researchers and students studying biomembranes a unique snapshot of what is known in the field, where additional research is needed, and where the field is heading. Furthermore, armed with a better understanding of membranous systems, readers are well positioned to make new advances in such areas as drug design, medicine, and environmental technologies.

Kaushik Nag, PhD, is an Associate Professor in the Department of Biochemistry and Physics at Memorial University of Newfoundland, Canada. His research interests include biophysical and structural biochemistry of lipid-protein systems in lung surfactants and biomembranes. In addition, Dr. Nag is involved in using Langmuir films, giant liposome, Deuterium-NMR, fluorescence and atomic force microscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, Raman/IR imaging, and molecular dynamics simulations to study lung surfactant and biomembrane structure and dysfunction. He is the recipient of a prestigious five-year New Investigator Grant from the CIHR and major infrastructure funding from CFI and NSERC for Surface Nanobiology Laboratory.