Membrane Structure & Function Flashcards
1
Q
amphipathic
A
- a molecule (lipids or proteins) that has two distinct parts (hydrophobic and hydrophilic)
2
Q
glycolipid
A
- a molecule with a fatty part and a sugary part
- they help cells stick together and communicate
3
Q
lipid bilayer
A
- two layers of lipids that help form the basic structure of cell membranes
4
Q
saturated (hydrocarbon)
A
- a molecule where each carbon atom is linked to the maximum number of hydrogen atoms it can hold
5
Q
transmembrane protein
A
- a gate with passages running through the cell membrane, letting certain molecules in and out of the cell while blocking others
- essential for communication between the cell and its environment, as well as for controlling what enters and leaves the cell
6
Q
aqueous
A
- something being dissolved or suspended in water
7
Q
glycoprotein
A
- a protein molecule that has sugar molecules attached to it
- the sugar molecules help with cell recognition, acting as signaling molecules, or providing structural support
8
Q
multi-pass
A
- proteins that are important for transporting molecules in and out of cells, as well as for communication between cells
9
Q
selective barrier
A
- a structure (like a cell membrane) that lets certain substances pass through while keeping others out
10
Q
unsaturated (hydrocarbon)
A
- a molecule where the carbon atoms in the chain aren’t fully bonded with hydrogen atoms
11
Q
cholesterol
A
- builds and maintains cell walls and helping to produce hormones and Vitamin D
12
Q
hydrocarbon tail
A
- a long chain of carbon atoms with attached hydrogen atoms that sticks out from the rest of the molecule
13
Q
peripheral protein
A
- like a guard stationed on the outer edges of a cell’s membrane
- it helps with tasks like signaling, transport, and structural support
14
Q
single pass
A
- a visitor who enters the cell membrane once and doesn’t go back
- these proteins often act as receptors, receiving signals from outside the cell and passing them into the cell
15
Q
phospholipid
A
- a lipid that makes up the basic structure of cell membranes
- forms a barrier that separates the inside of the cell from the outside environment
16
Q
fatty acid
A
- a long chain of carbon atoms with hydrogen atoms attached
- they provide energy, help build cell membranes, and play a role in various biological processes
17
Q
integral protein
A
- it helps things move in and out of the cell and plays a role in communication between cells
18
Q
phosphatidylcholine
A
- a phospholipid that protects the cells in your brain
- transmits messages in your brain to help your memory and cognitive function
19
Q
tight junction
A
- a tight seal between two cells, ensuring that nothing can leak through the cracks
- maintains the integrity of tissues and organs, as well as for controls the movement of molecules between cells
