Macromolecules: Cell Recognition

Question 1

Receptor Molecules/Proteins

Answer 1

Glycoproteins

• carbohydrates + protein in cell membrane
• receptor site for hormones & cell recognition

Glycolipids

• carbohydrates + phospholipids in cell membrane
• receptor site for hormones

Question 2

Hormones

Answer 2

chemical messengers that target certain cells / glands to stimulate production or synthesis of cells

Question 3

Proteins in Cell Membrane

Answer 3

Transport: proteins which help to speed up movement of molecules across membrane

• active transport: carrier proteins (ion pumps)
• passive transport: channel proteins (facilitated diffusion)

Marker: “name tags” identify cell to other cells, enable immune system to distinguish own vs. invading cells

Receptor: allow cell interaction, exterior binds to molecule (chemical, hormone etc.) causes intracellular shape change, triggers reaction within cell (eg. growth factors & relay proteins)

Question 4

Antibodies & Antigens

Answer 4

Antibodies
- globular proteins (immunogloblins) produced by WBC, act on pathogens by neutralising them

Antigens
- molecules/markers on cell surfaces that stimulate immune system to produce Ab (foreign)