Abstract: A macromolecule membrane structure (2) comprises a membrane (3) with water-channeling integral membrane proteins (IMPS) (1) and is coated, on a first surface, with a silica layer (4). The silica layer (4) stabilizes the macromolecule membrane structure (2) and the water-channeling IMPS (1) while maintaining the water-channeling function of the water-channeling IMPs (1). As a consequence of this stabilization, the macromolecule membrane structure (2) may be used in a filtration device (5) for various filtration operations, including water purification.