Cell Membrane Introduction

Front

What is the cell membrane?

Back

The cell membrane is a biological membrane that separates and protects the interior of all cells from the outside environment. It regulates what enters and exits the cell.

Front

What are the main components of the cell membrane?

Back

The cell membrane is primarily composed of lipids (mainly phospholipids), proteins, and carbohydrates.

Front

What is a phospholipid?

Back

A phospholipid is a molecule that consists of a phosphate group, a glycerol backbone, and two fatty acid tails. It is a key component of the cell membrane.

Front

What is the hydrophobic region of the cell membrane?

Back

The hydrophobic region of the cell membrane refers to the fatty acid tails of phospholipids, which repel water and help to create a barrier.

Front

What is the function of the plasma membrane?

Back

The plasma membrane regulates what is transported into and out of the cell, maintaining homeostasis.

Front

What role do proteins play in the cell membrane?

Back

Proteins in the cell membrane assist in various functions such as transport, signaling, and acting as receptors.

Front

What is the fluid mosaic model?

Back

The fluid mosaic model describes the structure of the cell membrane as a mosaic of various components (lipids, proteins, carbohydrates) that are fluid and can move laterally within the layer.

Front

What is the significance of cholesterol in the cell membrane?

Back

Cholesterol helps to stabilize the cell membrane's structure and fluidity, making it less permeable to very small water-soluble molecules.

Front

What are glycoproteins?

Back

Glycoproteins are proteins that have carbohydrate chains attached to them. They play a key role in cell recognition and signaling.

Front

What is selective permeability?

Back

Selective permeability is the property of the cell membrane that allows certain substances to pass through while blocking others.