Designer lipids stop water freezing at sub-zero temperatures
Lipid membranes with unusual properties hinder the formation of ice crystals down to -263°C
By trapping water inside synthetic lipid membranes, scientists in Switzerland have been able to prevent it turning into ice, even at temperatures as low as -263°C. The researchers say their results could help further understanding of how water and lipids interact with each other under these conditions, and shed new light on how some living organisms are able to survive the extreme cold.