The Cell Membrane

Cell Membrane

Defines the cell, outlines its borders, and determines interactions with the environment.

Flexibility of Cell Membrane

Allows cells like red and white blood cells to change shape when passing through narrow capillaries.

Phospholipid

The main fabric of the membrane that provides pathways for substances to cross.

Cholesterol

Molecule that dampens temperature effects on the membrane, preventing disintegration in heat and rigidity in cold.

Integral Proteins

Proteins embedded within the phospholipid layer(s) that transport substances through the membrane. It may or may not penetrate through both layers.

Peripheral Proteins

Proteins located on the inner or outer surface of the phospholipid bilayer, are involved in cell recognition. It’s not embedded within the phospholipids.

Carbohydrates

Molecules generally attached to proteins on the outer membrane layer, facilitating cell recognition and interaction with the aqueous environment.