Phospholipid Bilayer: The fundamental structure of the cell membrane composed of two layers of phospholipids, with hydrophilic (polar) heads facing outward and hydrophobic (nonpolar) tails facing inward, creating a semi-permeable barrier.
Fluid Mosaic Model: The widely accepted model describing the cell membrane as a dynamic, flexible structure made up of phospholipids, proteins, cholesterol, and carbohydrates, allowing lateral movement of components.
Integral (Transmembrane) Proteins: Proteins embedded fully within the lipid bilayer that facilitate transport, signaling, and structural support.
Peripheral Proteins: Proteins attached temporarily to the membrane surface, often interacting with integral proteins or phospholipids, involved in signaling and maintaining cell shape.
Glycocalyx: A carbohydrate-rich zone on the exterior of the cell membrane composed of glycoproteins and glycolipids, playing roles in cell recognition, protection, and adhesion.
Cholesterol: Lipid molecules interspersed within the phospholipid bilayer that modulate membrane fluidity and stability.
1. What is the structure of the cell membrane primarily composed of?
2. What ions does the sodium-potassium pump (Na+/K+ ATPase) move across the cell membrane, and in what quantities per ATP hydrolyzed?
3. What is the primary role of membrane potential in cells?
Cell membrane structure — key components?
Phospholipid bilayer, proteins, cholesterol, glycocalyx.
Membrane transport — energy use?
Passive: no; Active: yes.
Membrane potential — main ion?
Potassium (K+).
Phospholipid Bilayer — structure?
Two-layer membrane with hydrophilic heads, hydrophobic tails.
Fluid Mosaic Model — description?
Dynamic membrane with lipids, proteins, cholesterol, carbohydrates.
Integral Proteins — role?
Embed fully; facilitate transport and signaling.
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