Chapter 3 Part 1: Cells-The Living Units Flashcards
Cell Theory
- the cell is the basic structural and functional unit of life
- organismal activity depends on individual and collective activity of cells
- cellular activity depends on the relative number of specific sub cellular structures
- continuity of life has a cellular basis. Cells can only arise from other cells
Plasma Membrane (general)
- selectively permeable barrier surrounding the cell
- plays a dynamic role in cellular activity
- provides biological markers for cell-cell recognition
Fluid Mosaic Model
Plasma membrane is a bilayer of lipids with imbedded, dispersed proteins
Membrane Lipids
- phospholipids have hydrophobic “tails” and hydrophilic “heads”
- hydrophobic tails make up the interior of the membrane
- glycolipids: are lipids with bound carbohydrate chains on the outer surface of the cell membrane
- cholesterol: helps stabilize the membrane fluidity
Integral Proteins
Firmly embedded in the cell membrane
Most protrude from both sides of the membrane as transmembrane proteins
Peripheral Proteins
More loosely attached at the surface
Glycoproteins
Have attached carbohydrate chains
Functions of Membrane Proteins
- Transport
- Enzyme Activity
- Receptors for signal transduction
- Intercellular joining
- Cell-cell recognition
- Attachment to the cytoskeleton and extracellular matrix
Glycocalyx
Carbohydrate area on the cell surface (glycolipids and glycoproteins)
Provides biological markers for cell recognition and instruction
Specialization of the Cell Membrane
Microvili and Membrane junctions
Microvili
Fingerlike projections on the cell membrane that increase Membrane surface area
Membrane Junctions
Tight Junctions
Anchoring Junctions
Gap Junctions
Tight Junctions
Impermeable (watertight) junction of interlocking Proteins encircling the cell
Anchoring Junctions
Anchors 2 cells together
-desmosomes: anchoring junctions that consist of an internal protein plaque and external linker proteins
Gap Junctions
Collection of hollow protein channels (connexons) that allow substances to pass between cells
Plasma Membrane Functions
Membrane Transport
Membrane Potential
Cell-environment Interactions
Membrane Transport: Passive Processes
no cellular energy required
Diffusion: the tendency for molecules or ions to disperse evenly
*concentration gradient: a difference in concentration of a substance between 2 areas (drives diffusion)