Tumor cell lipid bilayer

The tumor cell lipid bilayer is the fundamental structural boundary of malignant cells, characterized by distinct biochemical and biophysical properties that differ significantly from healthy cells (Riedl et al., 2011, Biochimica et Biophysica Acta). One of the most prominent features is the loss of phospholipid asymmetry, resulting in the externalization of phosphatidylserine (PS) to the outer leaflet, which imparts a net negative charge to the cell surface (Ran and Thorpe, 2002, International Journal of Radiation Oncology*Biology*Physics). This increased electronegativity, along with altered cholesterol levels and increased membrane fluidity, makes the bilayer a selective target for cationic anticancer peptides and alkylphosphocholines (Mollinedo, 2014, Expert Opinion on Therapeutic Targets). Drugs like LTX-315 and Edelfosine interact with these membranes to induce pore formation or disrupt lipid raft signaling, leading to rapid cell death (Camilio et al., 2014, Cancer Immunology, Immunotherapy). Because this target is structural rather than protein-based, it offers a potential pathway to circumvent traditional mechanisms of multi-drug resistance (Szachowicz-Petelska et al., 2014, Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry).

Other names

Cancer cell membraneTumor plasma membraneNeoplastic cell lipid bilayerCancer cell lipid bilayer

Direct physical disruption of membrane integrity, induction of pore formation (toroidal or barrel-stave models), and modulation of lipid raft-mediated signaling pathways leading to necrosis or apoptosis.