cell membranes Flashcards
1
Q
Three functions of cell membranes.
A
- Compartmentalisation.
- Site of chemical reactions.
- Acts as a barrier.
- Also site of cell communication (cell signalling)
2
Q
What is compartmentalisation?
A
It provides specific conditions for certain reactions to occur e.g mitochondrial membranes keeps the mitochondrial DNA and protein within aerobic respiration to occur.
3
Q
How can the cell membrane act as a barrier?
A
It is partially permeable, only allows small, lipid-soluble, non-polar substances to diffuse across.
4
Q
How does cell signalling work?
A
1 - protein has specific tertiary structure e.g. hormones/ neurotransmitters
2 - Protein binds to specific receptor with complementary tertiary structure
3 - on the call membrane
4 - Activates a response
