Biological Membranes and Transport Processes

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to biological membranes and their functions, including components, transport methods, and membrane properties.

Protein Channel

A type of transport protein that aids in the movement of ions and molecules across a biological membrane.

Globular Protein

A protein with a spherical shape, often functioning as an enzyme or receptor.

Glycoprotein

A molecule composed of a carbohydrate attached to a protein, often found on the cell surface.

Extracellular Fluid

Fluid located outside the cells, essential for various cellular functions.

Hydrophilic Heads

The part of a phospholipid that is attracted to water, forming the outer layer of a membrane.

Cholesterol

A type of lipid that helps to maintain membrane fluidity and stability.

Integral Protein

A type of membrane protein that spans the entire lipid bilayer.

Peripheral Protein

A protein attached to the surface of a membrane, not embedded in the lipid bilayer.

Phospholipid Bilayer

A double layer of phospholipids that forms the basic structure of cellular membranes.

Selective Permeability

The ability of a membrane to allow certain molecules to pass while blocking others.

Homeostasis

The maintenance of stable internal conditions within an organism.

Osmosis

The diffusion of water across a semi-permeable membrane.

Hypotonic Solution

A solution with a lower solute concentration compared to another, resulting in water moving into cells.

Hypertonic Solution

A solution with a higher solute concentration compared to another, causing water to move out of cells.

Isotonic Solution

A solution with equal solute concentration compared to another, leading to no net movement of water.

Facilitated Diffusion

A passive transport process that uses membrane proteins to help move molecules across the membrane.

Gated Channel Proteins

Specialized proteins that allow specific ions to cross the membrane upon receiving a signal.

Carrier Proteins

Proteins that bind to specific molecules and change shape to transport them across a membrane.

Fluid Mosaic Model

A model that describes the structural features of biological membranes as a dynamic mosaic of components.