Protein-protein interaction encoded as an exposure of hydrophobic residues on the surface

According to the fuzzy oil drop model, information required for complexation of an external polypeptide chain should be encoded as a local exposure of hydrophobicity on the protein surface. Of course, this is not the sole mechanism by which protein complexes may emerge; however, exposed hydrophobicity appears to play an important part in the complexation process. A local excess of hydrophobicity – especially if occurring on the surface – creates an environment which favors interaction with other polypeptide chains; particularly those, which also expose a hydrophobic interface.