Damaged cell membrane

The damaged cell membrane is a pathological state of the plasma membrane characterized by the loss of lipid bilayer integrity and the formation of pores or ruptures. This condition occurs as a result of mechanical stress, oxidative damage, or genetic defects in membrane-stabilizing proteins, leading to the uncontrolled entry of extracellular ions like calcium and the loss of essential intracellular contents. In many diseases, such as Duchenne muscular dystrophy and ischemia-reperfusion injury, the inability of the cell to rapidly repair these disruptions leads to cell death and tissue degeneration. Therapeutic targeting of the damaged cell membrane involves the use of membrane sealants or molecular patches that physically restore the barrier. For example, poloxamers like Poloxamer 188 (Vepoloxamer) are amphiphilic block copolymers that selectively insert into the damaged, hydrophobic regions of the membrane to seal leaks. This stabilization prevents further calcium-induced damage and promotes cell survival, making it a promising strategy for treating acute and chronic injuries across various tissues.

Other names

Injured cell membraneRuptured cell membraneWounded plasma membraneLeaky cell membranePlasma membrane disruption

Membrane sealing and stabilization through physical insertion into lipid bilayer defects and facilitation of endogenous repair mechanisms.