Protein/Peptide
activity

Proteins and peptides expose surfaces
that behaves according to principles
known in Surface Chemistry.

In the human body, they interact
with cell surface components.
This interaction is determined by
specific and non- specific factors.

Before specific factors become active,
non-specific factors must already be
functioning. Peptides have to adsorb
at a target structure, and still be in an
active form, before they interact with it.

Surface Chemistry is hence one of the
essential disciplines in determining
protein and peptide activity.
 

 
As seen in the model, the membrane
binding C2 domain of Factor VIII show a
division in hydrophilic and hydrophobic
regions.

The hydrophobic region is a key
factor in the membrane-binding
properties of the domain.

The large hydrophobic surface
of the domain will, in solution,
cause a more spherical shape
compared to the model, or
alternatively, formation of di- or
oligomer aggregates.