Cell Membrane Structure and Function

Front

What is a phospholipid?

Back

A phospholipid is a molecule that consists of a phosphate head and two fatty acid tails, forming the fundamental building blocks of cell membranes.

Front

What is the nonpolar region of the cell membrane?

Back

The nonpolar region of the cell membrane refers to the hydrophobic fatty acid tails of phospholipids that repel water.

Front

Which part of the plasma membrane is responsible for cell-to-cell recognition?

Back

The carbohydrate molecules attached to proteins and lipids on the extracellular surface of the plasma membrane are responsible for cell-to-cell recognition.

Front

What role does cholesterol play in the cell membrane?

Back

Cholesterol helps to stabilize the fluidity of the cell membrane, making it less permeable to very small water-soluble molecules that might otherwise pass freely through.

Front

What is the function of proteins in the cell membrane?

Back

Proteins in the cell membrane serve various functions including transport, acting as channels or carriers, and facilitating communication between the cell and its environment.

Front

Define the term 'glycoprotein'.

Back

A glycoprotein is a protein that has carbohydrate chains attached to it, playing a key role in cell recognition and signaling.

Front

What is the significance of 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 are integral proteins?

Back

Integral proteins are proteins that are embedded within the lipid bilayer of the cell membrane and can span across the membrane.

Front

What is the function of channel proteins?

Back

Channel proteins facilitate the transport of specific substances across the cell membrane by forming pores that allow molecules to pass through.

Front

What is the role of peripheral proteins?

Back

Peripheral proteins are attached to the exterior or interior surfaces of the membrane and play roles in signaling and maintaining the cell's shape.