Computer simulations of fusion, fission and shape deformation in lipid membranes

Abstract

Fusion and fission are two kinds of crucial cellular activities related to cell membranes. Therefore, the studies on fusion and fission are particularly important for the understanding of the nature of cell membranes. In this review, the recent studies on fusion, fission and shape deformation in the lipid membrane investigated by computer simulations are presented. Emphases are put on the causes, possible changes on the molecular level and the evolution pathways of fusion and fission processes. Furthermore, the relationship between fission (or fusion) and membrane deformation is also highlighted.