Question

What is the function of proteins in the cell membrane?

Answer 1

Membrane Proteins:

1. Proteins determine the membrane's specific functions.
2. Cell membrane and organelle membrane each have unique collections of proteins.

The function of proteins in the cell membrane:

1. In the membrane, different proteins are embedded in the fluid matrix of the lipid layer.
2. The phospholipids form the main fabric of the membrane, but also the proteins determine most of the membrane's functions.
3. There are two major populations of membrane proteins and they are Integral proteins and peripheral proteins.
4. Integral proteins penetrate the hydrophobic core of the lipid bilayer and usually across the whole membrane.
5. Peripheral proteins are not embedded in the lipid bilayer at all, and they are attached to the surface of the membrane.
6. Membrane proteins provide temporary binding sites that guide cell migration and other cell-to-cell interactions
7. It also acts as receptors, enzymes, cytoskeletal proteins, etc.
8. It mediates processes that are fundamental for flourishing biological cells.
9. It helps cells to communicate.
10. It helps in maintaining the shape of the cell.
11. It helps in transporting and sharing materials.