| Dynamical aspects of the junction between two cell membrane surfaces are investigated in reconstituted experimental systems. Hydrodynamic effects, which are strongly modulated by geometric confinement and restricted fluid flow within the intermembrane space, prove to dominate molecular movements in this environment. By studying lateral mobility of phase separated domains as well as length and time scales of membrane thermal fluctuations, we provide experimental confirmations of recent theoretical models linking these hydrodynamic and chemical properties of the system. Numerous biological processes occur within junctions between two cell membranes, and information provided by this work will be helpful in the development of modeling strategies of complex intercellular processes. |
