Cell Membrane Flashcards
Why do hydrophobic tails prevent water-soluble substances from crossing the membrane
They create a hydrophobic barrier
What is the head of a phospholipid made of
Phosphate group
What are the 4 components of the Fluid Mosaic Model?
Phospholipid bilayer
Proteins
Cholesterol
Carbohydrates
What are three parts of a phospholipid?
Phosphate group
2 fatty acid tails
Glycerol backbone
What is the function of the phospholipid bilayer?
Provides a barrier, separating the inside of the cell from the outside environment
What are the roles integral proteins?
Form channels to allow movement of large molecules and ions
What is the role of peripheral proteins
Carry signal across the membrane
What is the function of glycoproteins
Stabilise the membrane and facilitate intercellular communication
How does cholesterol help the plasma membrane?
Retains fluidity and prevents compaction or expansion of phospholipids
Where is cholesterol found in the membrane?
Between phospholipids
What is the difference between saturated and unsaturated fatty acids in the membrane?
Saturated: single bonds
Unsaturated: double bonds and kinks increase fluidity
What are lipid rafts?
Cholesterol-rich domains on the external leaflet of the plasma membrane
What is the effect of temperature on membrane fluidity?
Higher temperature increases fluidity
Causes fatty acid tails to become less tightly packed, creating space allowing flexibility
What are protein complexes in the membrane responsible for?
Transport, cell signalling, adhesion, and migration
