Abstract
The spin-label study on erythrocyte membrane revealed that there was heterogeneity in the fluidity in the membrane. Preservation of the heterogeneity was discussed in relation to the asymmetric distribution of phospholipids in the membrane and transmembrane linkage. It is suggested that the membrane inner proteins, such as spectrin and actin, let the membrane preserve the heterogeneity in the fluidity through the interaction with the membrane intrinsic glycoproteins, such as glycophorin and Band 3. Biological significance of the protein control of membrane structure was discussed in complementmediated hemolysis and membrane fusion by HVJ or CaF2.
