Question

Name the compounds which give fluidity and functional specificity to biomembranes.

• A. Fluidity by proteins, functional specificity by lipids
• B. Fluidity by lipids, functional specificity by proteins
• C. Fluidity by sugar, functional specificity by proteins
• D. Fluidity by sugar, functional specificity by lipids

Answer 1

The correct option is B Fluidity by lipids, functional specificity by proteins

Plasma membrane is a lipid bilayer in which the proteins, lipids and carbohydrates are incorporated which give it a mosaic-like appearance. The fluidity is conferred by lipid molecules. Proteins possess different amino acids having certain side chains. Such side chains interact with certain chemicals and can bind to them. This characteristic gives functional specificity to the membranes. Hence, functional specificity is conferred by proteins. Therefore, the correct answer is option B.