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Nature 419, 676-677 (17 October 2002) | doi:10.1038/419676a
Microbiology: All in the packaging
Edward F. DeLong
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Abstract
Certain bacteria generate highly toxic intermediates as part of their metabolism. Membranes with an unprecedented lipid composition and structure apparently meet the need for containment.
Lipid membranes form the major barrier that distinguishes 'self' from 'non-self', and they are essential for keeping cellular components inside a cell and toxins outside it. They are also active participants in the energy and transport processes necessary for cell growth and survival.
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