Why in the News?

New research by CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology, Hyderabad suggest that lipids (along with DNA), particularly in mitochondrial membranes, are not just structural elements but play an integral role in the function and evolution of proteins.

About Lipids and RC1 in Cells:

Lipids:

• Lipids, including fats, phospholipids, and sterols, make up to 30% of the dry weight of cells.
• They are crucial for membrane integrity and various biological processes.
• They vary in fatty acid composition and length, influenced by genetics, diet, and environmental factors.
• They form a bilayer in membranes, with hydrophilic heads facing outward and hydrophobic tails inward, providing stability and enabling protein function.
• Role of Lipids in Cells:
  • Lipids form the bilayer, providing flexibility and stability for membrane proteins that perform functions like receptor binding and ion channelling.
  • They like cardiolipin stabilize RC1 and other respiratory complexes, aiding energy production.

RC1 (Respiratory Complex 1):

• RC1 is a protein complex in the mitochondrial membrane, crucial for cellular respiration and energy production.
• It is composed of 44 proteins, some synthesized in the cytoplasm and others in mitochondria.
• Mutations in RC1 lead to diseases due to its vital role in respiration.

Lipid-Protein Co-evolution as per new Research:

• New research highlights the co-evolution of proteins and lipids, especially in mitochondrial membranes, where proteins interact with specific lipids from their own kingdom (plant or animal).
• Plant lipids, richer in polyunsaturated fatty acids, are more flexible, aiding stress resistance, while animal lipids evolve differently to meet their needs.
• Lipid-protein co-evolution adds complexity to cellular evolution, with implications for human health and disease treatment.

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