BIOL 3530 Chapter 10: Chapter 10.pdf

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The plasma membrane encloses the cell, defines its boundaries and maintains the essential differences between cytosol and extracellular environment. The plasma membrane contains proteins that act as sensors or external signals, allowing the cell to change its behaviour in response to environmental cues, including signals from other cells. All biological membranes have a common general structure. Very thin film of lipid (fatty) and protein molecules, held together mainly by non-covalent interactions. Lipid bilayer provides the basic fluid structure of the membrane and serves as a relatively impermeable barrier to the passage of most water soluble molecules. Basic structure common to all cells and almost all eukaryotic organelles. Composed mainly of lipids (mostly phospholipids, cholesterol) and other amphiphilic molecules. Barrier to diffusion of charged molecules, most polar molecules, macromolecules. Asymmetric - cytosolic (inside) vs lumenal/extracellular surfaces (outside) Membrane proteins regulate transport and maintain membrane potential (amongst other activities) All of the lipid molecules in cell membranes are amphiphilic.

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