Chapter 5.1 - Structure + function of membranes Flashcards
What is the formation of membrane-bound areas in a cell called?
Compartmentalisation
What are membranes formed form?
Phospholipid Bilayer
Why are phospholipid bilayers suited for their purpose?
The outer surfaces of the hydrophilic phosphate heads interact with the water.
Why is it called the fluid-mosaic model?
the phospholipids are free to move within the layer relative to each other, and the proteins embedded in the bilayer vary in shape and size (mosaic)
What is an intrinsic protein?
Proteins that are embedded in both layers of a membrane
What is an extrinsic protein?
Proteins that are only present in one side of the bilayer.
what is an example of an intrinsic protein (and function)
channel proteins - provides hydrophilic channel through membrane for passive movement through cell
carrier proteins - used for both active and passive transport.
what is an example of an extrinsic protein (and function)?
Cholesterol - lipid with hydrophilic end and a hydrophobic end, like a phospholipid - regulates fluidity of membranes.
What is the function of glycoproteins?
Plays a role in cell adhesion and as receptors for chemical signals.
What is the function of Glycolipids?
Lipids with attatched carbohydrate chains - commonly called “cell markers” for their ability to be recognised by the immune system as “self” (of the organism) or “non-self” (cells belonging to another organism).
