Membrane Structure and Function

These flashcards cover the key concepts related to membrane structure and function based on the lecture notes.

What are the primary components of cell membranes?

Phospholipid bilayer, proteins, carbohydrates, and cholesterol.

What is the fluid mosaic model of membranes?

It describes membranes as a flexible layer made of lipid molecules with embedded proteins that can move laterally.

What is the function of integral proteins in the membrane?

They span the entire membrane and can act as transport channels or receptors.

What process allows selective permeability in cell membranes?

Membrane acts as a barrier that controls which substances can enter or exit the cell.

What role do carbohydrates play in cell membranes?

They help in cell recognition and binding.

What is the effect of cholesterol on membrane fluidity?

Cholesterol prevents phospholipids from becoming too rigid at cold temperatures or too packed at warm temperatures.

What is osmosis?

The movement of water across a semi-permeable membrane from low solute concentration to high solute concentration until equilibrium is met.

What is the difference between saturated and unsaturated fatty acids in terms of membrane structure?

Saturated fatty acids have no double bonds and are straight chains, while unsaturated fatty acids have one or more double bonds causing kinks.

What is endocytosis?

The process by which cells bring substances into the cell by engulfing them in a membrane sac.

What are the two main types of membrane transport?

Passive transport (does not require energy) and active transport (requires energy).