Non-bulk-like water on cellular interfaces

Abstract

Given that a major fraction of cellular water is non-bulk-like in its physical properties the question arises: What is the molecular basis of this non-bulk water? As proteins are, by mass, the major solute in the cell it is natural to suspect proteins as the main factor responsible for the non-bulk properties of water in cells. This report reviews possible theories and facts on the origins of this non-bulk-like cellular water. After review of theories in the literature it is concluded that native globular proteins in their free and polymerized state can account for the major fraction of cell water as being non-bulk-like in its physical properties © 2006 Springer.