Next we performed similar MD simulations using the DLPE lipid bilayer system that mimics membrane surfaces2627. Two monomers were placed above and below the bilayer (Fig. 5A inset). The initial orientations of the monomers on the outside and inside facing leaflets are opposite of each other to determine if the initial approach orientation has an effect on the surface interaction. Similar to the results for the mica surface, the monomers assemble into dimers, but the process occurs more rapidly. As shown in Fig. 5A, in both dimers, the monomers interact with the surface within 20 ns followed by a rapid dimer formation process. Structural changes occur in monomers upon the interaction with the surface. Fig. 5B demonstrates the structural dynamics of the monomers over the entire simulation time. The initial structure containing small helical segments becomes largely unstructured with β-bridge, turn, or bends. The dimer interacts with the surface and re-organizes on the surface. Through this re-organization, monomers are able to dissociate from and re-associate with the surface – but still remain as dimers. This dynamic behavior is seen as fluctuations in the number and duration of contacts during the simulation, Fig. 5C.