Membranes and Receptors

Membrane Bilayer and its Functions

• The session is about the membrane bilayer and its components.
• The learning outcomes include listing the main kinds of lipids and general properties of fatty acids.
• The session also aims to explain the properties of amphipathic molecules and the process of formation of lipid bilayers.
• The influence of unsaturated fatty acids and cholesterol on membrane fluidity will be discussed.
• The restrictions on protein movement in the membrane, including potential interactions with cytoskeletal elements, will be explained.
• The general functions of biological membranes include acting as a continuous highly selective permeability barrier.
• Membranes also allow control of the enclosed chemical environment.
• Membranes play a role in communication by controlling the flow of information between cells and their environment.
• Recognition is another function of membranes, involving signaling molecules, adhesion proteins, and immune surveillance.
• Membranes are involved in signal generation in response to stimuli, both electrical and chemical.
• Membranes are composed of lipids and proteins.
• The composition of membranes is generally membranous.