Function
Biological membranes consist of a phospholipid bilayer and a variety of proteins that accomplish vital biological functions.
- Structural proteins are attached to microfilaments in the cytoskeleton which ensures stability of the cell.
- Cell adhesion molecules allow cells to identify each other and interact. Such proteins are involved in immune response, for example.
- Membrane enzymes produce a variety of substances essential for cell function.
- Membrane receptor proteins serve as connection between the cell's internal and external environments.
- Transport proteins play an important role in the maintenance of concentrations of ions. These transport proteins come in two forms: carrier proteins and channel proteins.
- Cell membranes are the biological membranes that separate the interior of all cells from the outside environment
Read more about this topic: Membrane Protein
Famous quotes containing the word function:
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—Susanne K. Langer (1895–1985)
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—Erik H. Erikson (1904–1994)