Role of cellular membranes in hyperthermia: some observations and theories reviewed.

We have re-examined critically the evidence for and against the involvement of membranes in determining the response of cells to acute and chronic heat stress. Although frequently dismissed by many in the past, we believe that the bulk of evidence presented supports the view that physical and compositional alterations of membrane lipid components, both during and subsequent to heat exposure may, at least in part, account for cell adaptation, malfunction and lethality. Our primary goal in this review is to generate renewed interest in testing the validity of this hypothesis.