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Question

What is the structure and function of cell membrane?


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Solution

Cell Membrane:

  1. A lipid bilayer with proteins embedded in it makes up a cell's plasma membrane.
  2. The proteins contained in the plasma membrane provide a number of functions in the cell, including supporting the membrane's three-dimensional shape structurally.
  3. The fluid mosaic model, which depicts the plasma membrane as a mixture of phospholipids, proteins, carbohydrates, and cholesterol, is the most accurate way to describe its composition.
  4. Garth L. Nicolson and S.J. Singer were the ones who first presented the fluid mosaic paradigm.

Lipids and proteins make up the majority of the plasma membrane's composition. The following are the primary elements that make up the plasma membrane:

  1. Phospholipids: The Plasma Membrane's chemical makeup is created by this. The primary component of the membrane is made up of these lipid molecules containing phosphorus head groups.
  2. Peripheral Proteins: Instead of in the center, they appear on the outer or inner surface of the phospholipid bilayer.
  3. Cholesterol: These molecules make up the hydrophobic tails of the phospholipid bilayer.
  4. Carbohydrates: This substance, which also produces glycoproteins and glycolipids, is typically present on the membrane's exterior.
  5. Integral Proteins: They are incorporated into or sandwiched between the bilipid layer.

Below is a list of the functions of the plasma membrane:

  1. Specialized tasks including cell-cell identification and selective molecular transport are carried out by the proteins anchored in the membrane.
  2. It gives the cell defense and maintains a consistent environment inside the cell. It is in charge of carrying out certain tasks.
  3. It also houses the cytoskeleton, which gives cells their shape and joins with the extracellular matrix and other cells to form tissues.
  4. The Plasma Membrane is principally in charge of connecting with neighboring cells.
  5. The Membrane also gives assistance in moving molecules within the Membrane and helps the Proteins monitor and maintain the chemical environment inside the cell.


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