journal article·2026-02Open access

Precise Regulation of Membrane Proteins: From Physical Technology to Biomolecular Strategy

Xiu Zhao, Qingqing Zhou, Mengli Li, Wen Zou, Zhenzhong Zhang, Jinjin Shi, Junjie Liu

Advanced Science· Volume 13· Issue 10

Abstract

Abstract As essential functional components of the cell membrane, membrane proteins serve as one of the key mechanisms for sensing external stimuli and play crucial roles in diverse biological processes, including cell migration, proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. These processes are closely related to the maintenance of physiological homeostasis and the progression of various diseases. In recent years, with an in‐depth understanding of membrane protein functions, developing membrane protein regulation strategies has emerged as a significant direction in both basic research and therapeutic applications. Precise modulation of membrane protein expression levels, conformational changes, and spatial distribution enables artificial regulation of cellular behavior, thereby opening promising avenues for treating diseases such as cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, and immune dysfunctions. This review comprehensively summarizes various physical technologies and biomolecule‐driven approaches for membrane protein regulation, including applying light/temperature/magnetism/ultrasound‐sensitive modules to achieve external physical control, as well as biomolecular tools, such as DNA, peptides, and proteins with specific receptor recognition properties that modulate membrane proteins via intermolecular interactions. Furthermore, the advantages and limitations of different membrane protein regulation techniques are discussed, aiming to provide new insights into cell function regulation and disease treatment.
Source: crossref · Quality: baseline

Research context

OpenAlex topics: Lipid Membrane Structure and Behavior · Photochromic and Fluorescence Chemistry · Nanoplatforms for cancer theranostics

SciVX discovery tags are terminology-based. OpenAlex topics are source-provided classifications.

Affiliations

School of Pharmaceutical Sciences Zhengzhou University Zhengzhou Henan 450001 China

Henan Key Laboratory of Nanomedicine for Targeting Diagnosis and Treatment Zhengzhou University Zhengzhou Henan 450001 China

Pingyuan Laboratory State Key Laboratory of Antiviral Drugs

Funding

National Natural Science Foundation of China · China Postdoctoral Science Foundation

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