Membrane Proteins and their Functions

These flashcards cover key vocabulary related to membrane proteins and their various functions, aiming to enhance understanding for exam preparation.

Integral proteins

Proteins that are embedded in the lipid bilayer of the membrane, functioning as transport proteins, enzymes, or receptors.

Peripheral proteins

Proteins located on the surface of the membrane or attached to other proteins, serving roles such as enzymes and motor proteins.

Transport proteins

Membrane proteins that facilitate the movement of substances across the membrane.

Signal transduction

The process by which a signal is transmitted through the cell as a series of molecular events.

Ligands

Molecules such as hormones or neurotransmitters that bind to receptors and trigger cellular responses.

Glycoproteins

Proteins that have carbohydrates attached, serving as identification tags for cell recognition.

Cell adhesion molecules (CAMs)

Sticky glycoproteins that help cells adhere to each other and guide cell migration.

Tight junctions

Intercellular junctions that create impermeable seals between cells.

Desmosomes

Anchoring junctions that provide mechanical stability to tissues.

Gap junctions

Communication junctions that allow ions and small molecules to pass between adjacent cells.

Glycocalyx

The carbohydrate coating on the outer surface of the cell that serves as a marker for cell recognition.

Second messengers

Intracellular signaling molecules that relay signals received at receptors on the cell surface.

Kinase enzymes

Enzymes that transfer phosphate groups from ATP to specific proteins, activating various cellular functions.