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Questions and Answers
What is the purpose of the cell membrane?
What is the purpose of the cell membrane?
To contain the cytoplasm and regulate the transfer of materials in and out of the cell.
What kind of things are allowed inside the cell membrane?
What kind of things are allowed inside the cell membrane?
Only ions and organic compounds such as Na and H2O.
How is the cell membrane constructed?
How is the cell membrane constructed?
It is composed of two layers of phospholipids.
What is a phospholipid composed of?
What is a phospholipid composed of?
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Define the terms hydrophilic and hydrophobic.
Define the terms hydrophilic and hydrophobic.
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Cell membranes are present in both living and dead cells.
Cell membranes are present in both living and dead cells.
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How can we classify proteins associated with the cell membrane?
How can we classify proteins associated with the cell membrane?
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Detail the two ways a protein can be classified according to its location.
Detail the two ways a protein can be classified according to its location.
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What are the types of proteins according to their function?
What are the types of proteins according to their function?
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Explain channel and glycoproteins.
Explain channel and glycoproteins.
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What is an example of glycoproteins in use?
What is an example of glycoproteins in use?
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What is a gatekeeper protein?
What is a gatekeeper protein?
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Study Notes
Cell Membrane Overview
- Functions to contain cytoplasm and regulate material transfer in and out of the cell.
- Considered a sophisticated organelle integral to cellular function.
Selective Permeability
- Allows selective entry of specific ions and organic compounds, such as sodium (Na) and water (H2O).
- Ensures that only necessary substances can enter the cytoplasm.
Structure of the Cell Membrane
- Composed of a bilayer of phospholipids.
- The bilayer arrangement is crucial for its functional properties.
Phospholipid Composition
- Made of a hydrophilic phosphate group head and two hydrophobic fatty acid tails.
- This structure contributes to the membrane's selective permeability.
Hydrophilic vs. Hydrophobic
- Hydrophilic substances attract water, whereas hydrophobic substances repel water.
- These properties influence how substances interact with the cell membrane.
Cell Membrane Presence
- Present only in living cells, refuting the idea that they exist in dead cells.
Classification of Proteins
- Proteins can be categorized based on their location (peripheral vs. transmembrane) or their functions (channels, gatekeepers, glycoproteins).
Types of Membrane Proteins
- Peripheral proteins are located on the membrane's exterior, aiding in cell identification.
- Transmembrane proteins span the membrane and function as gatekeepers, forming channels for material transport.
Function of Various Proteins
- Channel proteins facilitate the passage of materials through the membrane.
- Glycoproteins provide cells with a unique identity and assist in immune response.
Glycoproteins in Action
- Determine blood type and play a role in identifying foreign invaders in the body.
Gatekeeper Proteins
- Maintain selective permeability, opening and closing in response to encountered materials.
- Examples include the process of insulin entering cells and neuronal signaling processes.
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Description
Explore the essential functions and characteristics of the cell membrane with these informative flashcards. Learn about its role in regulating materials in and out of the cell and understand its selective permeability. Perfect for students studying cell biology and related fields.
