Fluorescence strategies for mapping cell membrane dynamics and structures

Abstract

Fluorescence spectroscopy has been a cornerstone of research in membrane dynamics and organization. Technological advances in fluorescence spectroscopy went hand in hand with discovery of various physicochemical properties of membranes at nanometric spatial and microsecond timescales. In this perspective, we discuss the various challenges associated with quantification of physicochemical properties of membranes and how various modes of fluorescence spectroscopy have overcome these challenges to shed light on the structure and organization of membranes. Finally, we discuss newer measurement strategies and data analysis tools to investigate the structure, dynamics, and organization of membranes.