Foundations- Membranes

What is a role of the membrane within a cell

compartmentalisation

Provide structural support for the organelle

Place for some metabolic reactions

What is a role of the cell membrane at the cell surface

• a site of chemical reactions

• Seperate cell contents from outside

• Control entry and exit

• Cell signalling via receptors

What are glycoproteins used for

To help identify cells as self, they are recognition sites

What does cholesterol do in the membrane

Adds stability and fluidity

Also reduces permeability to water as it fits between tails so water can’t enter as easily

What are intrinsic proteins

They span the bilayer and are often ion channels that allow too big molecules to pass into the cell

Channel and carrier

What are extrinsic proteins

They are on the inner or outer surface of the membrane (inner= integral outer=perioheral), they are often receptors or enzymes and focus on cell signalling and communication