Question

What is the purpose of a channel protein?

Answer 1

Channel protein:

1. Channel protein is a kind of protein that is found embedded in the plasma membrane of a cell.
2. It functions similar to a pore and allows the diffusion of small ions and water molecules through them.
3. These are lipoproteins and are synthesized in the rough endoplasmic reticulum of a cell.
4. These transport water-soluble molecules through them.
5. The main purpose of a channel protein is to transport the ions and water molecules quickly through the membrane.
6. Channel proteins are transmembrane proteins, which are involved in the movement of substance both entry and exit in the cell.
7. They transport substances without binding to them and without spending energy.
8. Examples of channel proteins include chloride, potassium, calcium, sodium ion channels.
9. A specific type of channel proteins are aquaporins, which can conduct water through the membrane very quickly.