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4.1: Structure of the cell-surface membrane

Anatomy and Physiology11 CardsCreated 3 months ago

The phospholipid bilayer forms the basis of cell membranes, with hydrophilic heads facing outward and hydrophobic tails inward, creating a selective barrier. It allows lipid-soluble substances to pass, prevents water-soluble substances from crossing, and provides flexibility. Internal membranes compartmentalize cellular activities and support metabolic functions.

Describe the structure of the phospholipid bilayer

-Hydrophilic heads of both phospholipid layers point to the outside of the cell-surface membrane attracted by water on both sides.
-The hydrophilic tails of both phospholipid layers point into the surface of the cell surface membrane repelled by water.

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Key Terms

Term
Definition

Describe the structure of the phospholipid bilayer

-Hydrophilic heads of both phospholipid layers point to the outside of the cell-surface membrane attracted by water on both sides.
-The hydrophi...

Describe the functions of the phospholipids in the cell-surface membrane

-Allow lipid-soluble substances to enter and leave the cell
-Prevent water soluble substances entering and leaving the cell
- Make the membra...

Describe the function of membranes within cells

  • Control the entry and exit of material in discrete organelles
    -Separate organelles from cytoplasm so that specific metabolic reactions c...

What are intrinsic proteins?

Occur in the surface of the bilayer and never extend completely across it
-Act to give mechanical support to the membrane or act as cell-surface...

What are extrinsic proteins?

  • Completely span the phospholipid bilayer
    -Protein channels or carrier proteins

Describe the function of proteins in the membrane

  • provide structural support

  • act as channels to transport water soluble substances across the membrane
    -allow active transp...

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TermDefinition

Describe the structure of the phospholipid bilayer

-Hydrophilic heads of both phospholipid layers point to the outside of the cell-surface membrane attracted by water on both sides.
-The hydrophilic tails of both phospholipid layers point into the surface of the cell surface membrane repelled by water.

Describe the functions of the phospholipids in the cell-surface membrane

-Allow lipid-soluble substances to enter and leave the cell
-Prevent water soluble substances entering and leaving the cell
- Make the membrane flexible and self sealing

Describe the function of membranes within cells

  • Control the entry and exit of material in discrete organelles
    -Separate organelles from cytoplasm so that specific metabolic reactions can take place within them
    -Provide and internal transport system
    -Isolate enzymes that might damage the cell
    -Provide surfaces on which reactions can occur

What are intrinsic proteins?

Occur in the surface of the bilayer and never extend completely across it
-Act to give mechanical support to the membrane or act as cell-surface receptors

What are extrinsic proteins?

  • Completely span the phospholipid bilayer
    -Protein channels or carrier proteins

Describe the function of proteins in the membrane

  • provide structural support

  • act as channels to transport water soluble substances across the membrane
    -allow active transport through carrier proteins

  • form cell-surface receptors for identifying cells

  • help cells adhere together

Describe the function of cholesterol in the membrane

  • Hydrophobic- prevent the leakage of water and dissolved ions from the cell

  • Pull together fatty acid tails of phospholipids- reduce lateral movement of phospholipids and other molecules

  • Makes the membrane less fluid at high temperatures

Describe the function of glycolipids in the membrane

  • Act as recognition sites
    -Help cells attach to one another to form tissues

  • Helps maintain the stability of the membrane