Lipids/proteins Flashcards
(9 cards)
What are biological membranes primarily composed of?
Biological membranes are primarily composed of lipids and proteins.
What is a lipid bilayer?
A lipid bilayer is an aggregate of lipid molecules where polar head groups contact water and hydrophobic parts are shielded from it.
What role do proteins play in cell membranes?
Proteins can make up from 20% to 80% of the total weight of cell membranes, contributing to their properties.
What are the principal lipid components of membranes?
The principal lipid components of membranes include phosphoglycerides and glycolipids.
What is the significance of hydrophobic interactions in lipid bilayers?
The existence of lipid bilayers depends on hydrophobic interactions.
What types of steroids are found in biological membranes?
Cholesterol is found in animal membranes, while phytosterols are found in plant membranes.
What are the characteristics of the polar surface of a lipid bilayer?
The polar surface of the bilayer contains charged groups.
What is the structure of the hydrocarbon tails in a lipid bilayer?
The hydrocarbon tails lie in the interior of the bilayer.
How does the packing of the inner layer of a lipid bilayer compare to the outer layer?
The inner layer of a lipid bilayer is more tightly packed than the outer layer.
