Membrane permeability is fundamental to all cell biology and subcellular biology. The cell exists as a closed unit. Import and export depend upon a number of sophisticated mechanisms, such as active transport, endocytosis, exocytosis, and passive diffusion. These systems are critical for the normal housekeeping physiological functions. However, access to the cell is also taken advantage of by toxic microbes (such as cholera or ptomaine) and when designing drugs.
Ernest Overton, one of the pioneers in lipid membrane research, put forward the first comprehensive theory of lipid membrane structure. His most quoted paper on the osmotic properties of cells laid the foundation for the modern concepts of membrane function, most notably important in anesthesia.
This book is designed to celebrate the centennial anniversary (in the first chapter) of Overton's work. Subsequent chapters present readers with up-to-date concepts of membrane structure and function and the challenge they pose for new explorations.
Key Features
* Provides an historical perspective of Overton's contributions to the theory of narcosis
* Presents an overview of each permeability mechanism, including active transport, endocytosis, exocytosis, and passive diffusion

Challenging and provocative overviews are presented in Volume 40 of Current Topics in Membranes. Topics on cell lipids vary from basic themes such as biosynthesis and membrane distribution to the role of lipids in intracellular signaling and membrane flow. This single volume also highlights the roles of lipids in eukaryotic cells and discusses organization of lipids in microdomains.