Bistable molecular self-assembling

Self-assembled aggregates made up of molecules taking different geometrical conformational states are discussed. Besides the well-known order–disorder conformational transition involving the hydrophobic tails, the review focuses on the geometrical variations occurring in the head group region and on the related changes of the whole assembly. These effects are particularly relevant in amphiphile molecules carrying bulky and flexible headgroups like the glycolipids. Possible biological relevance of the headgroup bistability is discussed.