Question

Explain the association of carbohydrate to the plasma membrane and its significance.

Answer 1

Dear student,

The plasma membrane consists of lipids ( mainly phospholipids, glycolipids and cholesterol), proteins and carbohydrates . The fundamental structure of the membrane is the phospholipid bilayer. The proteins are embedded within this lipid bilayer and carbohydrates are attached to the proteins and extend out to the surface.These carbohydrates attached covalently to proteins or lipids and form about 1-5% of the total chemical composition of the plasma membrane. Its function is to address loci for cells and cell adhesion.

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