‘Lipid asymmetry’ plays key role in activating immune cells

A cell’s membrane is its natural barrier between the inside of a cell and the outside world—composed of a double layer (bilayer) of lipids (such as fats, waxes, sterols, or fat-soluble vitamins). Intriguingly, it’s been known for decades that the layer facing the inside of cells is made of different lipids than the outside-facing layer.