View
220
Download
0
Category
Tags:
Preview:
Citation preview
Cell Membranes
PLO’s
B9 - analyse the structure and function of the cell membrane Identify molecules in the membrane and how they
contribute the characteristics of the membrane Describe hydrophobic and hydrophilic regions
CELL MEMBRANE STRUCTURE
Fluid Mosaic Model:• Plasma membrane consists of a phospholipid
bilayer with protein molecules embedded in it• Phospholipids give a “fluid” consistency• Proteins form the “mosaic”
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Cell_membrane_detailed_diagram_edit2.svg:
http://www.bioteach.ubc.ca/Bio-industry/Inex/
Phospholipids
Phosphate end is polar and hydrophilic (attracted to water)
Fatty acid chains are non polar and hydrophobic
http://bioinfo.bact.wisc.edu/themicrobialworld/Structure.html
Since the membrane is surrounded by water inside and out, the phospholipids arrange themselves like this:
Membrane Proteins
Peripheral proteins - on the inner or outer surface
Integral proteins - extend right throughMany of the proteins are free to move around
laterally within the membrane
Membrane Protein Functions
Channels to allow materials in and out of the cell
Transport proteins that carry specific molecules in and out of the cell
Receptors for hormones, growth factors and other chemicals that bind to the outside of the cell
Enzymes to catalyze reactions in the cell
Connecting cells to other cells at junctions
Ex. Gap junctions (allow passage of materials from cell to cell), tight junctions (connect cells together)
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrate chains are attached to some lipid and protein molecules
(glycolipids & glycoproteins)Usually attached to the outer surfaceThese are different in each individualCell recognition - “ID cards”, enable the body
to recognize its own cells
Cholesterol
Embedded in the membraneHelps to maintain the
fluidity and flexibility of the membrane
Helps to hold the proteins in place
Reduces permeability of the membrane
Membrane Permeability
Cell membranes are differentially (selectively) permeable
Certain substances can move through freely (water, gases, small molecules, uncharged (non-polar) molecules
Others cannot, and require special processes to get through (larger molecules, ions)
Recommended