Lipid rafts: contentious only from simplistic standpoints

Abstract

Lipid rafts, if they exist in resting cell membranes, are too small to be resolved by fluorescent microscopy and have no defined ultrastructure. However, recent studies with model membranes, computational modelling and innovative cell-biology techniques have provided new insights into plasma-membrane micro-organization. The hypothesis that lipid rafts exist in plasma membranes and have crucial biological functions remains controversial. The lateral heterogeneity of proteins in the plasma membrane is undisputed, but the contribution of cholesterol-dependent lipid assemblies to this complex, non-random organization promotes vigorous debate. In the light of recent studies with model membranes, computational modelling and innovative cell biology, I propose an updated model of lipid rafts that readily accommodates diverse views on plasma-membrane micro-organization.