Cell membrane: its structure and functions. What is a membrane? The structure and function of the membrane What is a cell membrane definition

The cell membrane is the structure that covers the outside of the cell. It is also called cytolemma or plasmolemma.

This formation is built from a bilipid layer (bilayer) with proteins embedded in it. The carbohydrates that make up the plasmalemma are in a bound state.

The distribution of the main components of the plasmalemma is as follows: more than half of the chemical composition falls on proteins, a quarter is occupied by phospholipids, and a tenth is cholesterol.

Cell membrane and its types

The cell membrane is a thin film, which is based on layers of lipoproteins and proteins.

By localization, membrane organelles are distinguished, which have some features in plant and animal cells:

mitochondria;
nucleus;
endoplasmic reticulum;
Golgi complex;
lysosomes;
chloroplasts (in plant cells).

There is also an inner and outer (plasmolemma) cell membrane.

The structure of the cell membrane

The cell membrane contains carbohydrates that cover it in the form of a glycocalyx. This is a supra-membrane structure that performs a barrier function. The proteins located here are in a free state. Unbound proteins are involved in enzymatic reactions, providing extracellular breakdown of substances.

Proteins of the cytoplasmic membrane are represented by glycoproteins. According to the chemical composition, proteins are isolated that are completely included in the lipid layer (throughout) - integral proteins. Also peripheral, not reaching one of the surfaces of the plasmalemma.

The former function as receptors, binding to neurotransmitters, hormones, and other substances. Insertion proteins are necessary for the construction of ion channels through which ions and hydrophilic substrates are transported. The latter are enzymes that catalyze intracellular reactions.

Basic properties of the plasma membrane

The lipid bilayer prevents the penetration of water. Lipids are hydrophobic compounds present in the cell as phospholipids. The phosphate group is turned outward and consists of two layers: the outer one, directed to the extracellular environment, and the inner one, delimiting the intracellular contents.

Water-soluble areas are called hydrophilic heads. The fatty acid sites are directed inside the cell, in the form of hydrophobic tails. The hydrophobic part interacts with neighboring lipids, which ensures their attachment to each other. The double layer has selective permeability in different areas.

So, in the middle, the membrane is impermeable to glucose and urea, hydrophobic substances pass freely here: carbon dioxide, oxygen, alcohol. Cholesterol is important, the content of the latter determines the viscosity of the plasma membrane.

Functions of the outer membrane of the cell

The characteristics of the functions are briefly listed in the table:

Membrane Function	Description
barrier role	The plasmalemma performs a protective function, protecting the contents of the cell from the effects of foreign agents. Due to the special organization of proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, the semi-permeability of the plasma membrane is ensured.
Receptor function	Through the cell membrane, biologically active substances are activated in the process of binding to receptors. Thus, immune reactions are mediated through the recognition of foreign agents by the receptor apparatus of cells localized on the cell membrane.
transport function	The presence of pores in the plasmalemma allows you to regulate the flow of substances into the cell. The transfer process proceeds passively (without energy consumption) for compounds with low molecular weight. Active transfer is associated with the expenditure of energy released during the breakdown of adenosine triphosphate (ATP). This method takes place for the transfer of organic compounds.
Participation in the processes of digestion	Substances are deposited on the cell membrane (sorption). Receptors bind to the substrate, moving it inside the cell. A vesicle is formed, lying freely inside the cell. Merging, such vesicles form lysosomes with hydrolytic enzymes.
Enzymatic function	Enzymes, necessary components of intracellular digestion. Reactions that require the participation of catalysts proceed with the participation of enzymes.

What is the importance of the cell membrane

The cell membrane is involved in maintaining homeostasis due to the high selectivity of substances entering and leaving the cell (in biology this is called selective permeability).

Outgrowths of the plasmolemma divide the cell into compartments (compartments) responsible for performing certain functions. Specifically arranged membranes, corresponding to the fluid-mosaic scheme, ensure the integrity of the cell.

biological membranes- the general name of functionally active surface structures that limit cells (cellular or plasma membranes) and intracellular organelles (membranes of mitochondria, nuclei, lysosomes, endoplasmic reticulum, etc.). They contain lipids, proteins, heterogeneous molecules (glycoproteins, glycolipids) and, depending on the function performed, numerous minor components: coenzymes, nucleic acids, antioxidants, carotenoids, inorganic ions, etc.

The coordinated functioning of membrane systems - receptors, enzymes, transport mechanisms - helps maintain cell homeostasis and at the same time quickly respond to changes in the external environment.

To main functions of biological membranes can be attributed:

separation of the cell from the environment and the formation of intracellular compartments (compartments);

control and regulation of the transport of a huge variety of substances through membranes;

participation in providing intercellular interactions, transmission of signals inside the cell;

conversion of the energy of food organic substances into the energy of chemical bonds of ATP molecules.

The molecular organization of the plasma (cell) membrane in all cells is approximately the same: it consists of two layers of lipid molecules with many specific proteins included in it. Some membrane proteins have enzymatic activity, while others bind nutrients from the environment and ensure their transport into the cell through membranes. Membrane proteins are distinguished by the nature of their association with membrane structures. Some proteins, called external or peripheral , loosely bound to the surface of the membrane, others, called internal or integrated , are immersed inside the membrane. Peripheral proteins are easily extracted, while integral proteins can only be isolated using detergents or organic solvents. On fig. 4 shows the structure of the plasma membrane.

The outer, or plasma, membranes of many cells, as well as the membranes of intracellular organelles, such as mitochondria, chloroplasts, were isolated in a free form and their molecular composition was studied. All membranes contain polar lipids in an amount ranging from 20 to 80% of its mass, depending on the type of membranes, the rest is mainly accounted for by proteins. So, in the plasma membranes of animal cells, the amount of proteins and lipids, as a rule, is approximately the same; the inner mitochondrial membrane contains about 80% proteins and only 20% lipids, while the myelin membranes of brain cells, on the contrary, contain about 80% lipids and only 20% proteins.

Rice. 4. Structure of the plasma membrane

The lipid part of the membranes is a mixture of various kinds of polar lipids. Polar lipids, which include phosphoglycerolipids, sphingolipids, glycolipids, are not stored in fat cells, but are incorporated into cell membranes, and in strictly defined ratios.

All polar lipids in membranes are constantly renewed during metabolism; under normal conditions, a dynamic stationary state is established in the cell, in which the rate of lipid synthesis is equal to the rate of their decay.

The membranes of animal cells contain mainly phosphoglycerolipids and, to a lesser extent, sphingolipids; triacylglycerols are found only in trace amounts. Some membranes of animal cells, especially the outer plasma membrane, contain significant amounts of cholesterol and its esters (Fig. 5).

Fig.5. Membrane lipids

Currently, the generally accepted model for the structure of membranes is the fluid mosaic model proposed in 1972 by S. Singer and J. Nicholson.

According to her, proteins can be likened to icebergs floating in a lipid sea. As mentioned above, there are 2 types of membrane proteins: integral and peripheral. Integral proteins penetrate the membrane through, they are amphipathic molecules. Peripheral proteins do not penetrate the membrane and are less strongly associated with it. The main continuous part of the membrane, that is, its matrix, is the polar lipid bilayer. At normal cell temperature, the matrix is in a liquid state, which is ensured by a certain ratio between saturated and unsaturated fatty acids in the hydrophobic tails of polar lipids.

The fluid mosaic model also suggests that on the surface of integral proteins located in the membrane there are R-groups of amino acid residues (mainly hydrophobic groups, due to which proteins seem to “dissolve” in the central hydrophobic part of the bilayer). At the same time, on the surface of peripheral, or external proteins, there are mainly hydrophilic R-groups, which are attracted to the hydrophilic charged polar heads of lipids due to electrostatic forces. Integral proteins, and these include enzymes and transport proteins, are active only if they are located inside the hydrophobic part of the bilayer, where they acquire the spatial configuration necessary for the manifestation of activity (Fig. 6). It should be emphasized once again that no covalent bonds are formed between the molecules in the bilayer, nor between the proteins and lipids of the bilayer.

Fig.6. Membrane proteins

Membrane proteins can move freely in the lateral plane. Peripheral proteins literally float on the surface of the bilayer "sea", while integral proteins, like icebergs, are almost completely submerged in the hydrocarbon layer.

Most of the membranes are asymmetric, that is, they have unequal sides. This asymmetry is manifested in the following:

Firstly, the fact that the inner and outer sides of the plasma membranes of bacterial and animal cells differ in the composition of polar lipids. For example, the inner lipid layer of human erythrocyte membranes contains mainly phosphatidylethanolamine and phosphatidylserine, while the outer lipid layer contains phosphatidylcholine and sphingomyelin.

· secondly, some transport systems in membranes act only in one direction. For example, erythrocyte membranes have a transport system (“pump”) that pumps Na + ions from the cell to the environment, and K + ions into the cell due to the energy released during ATP hydrolysis.

Thirdly, the outer surface of the plasma membrane contains a very large number of oligosaccharide groups, which are the heads of glycolipids and oligosaccharide side chains of glycoproteins, while there are practically no oligosaccharide groups on the inner surface of the plasma membrane.

The asymmetry of biological membranes is preserved due to the fact that the transfer of individual phospholipid molecules from one side of the lipid bilayer to the other is very difficult for energy reasons. The polar lipid molecule is able to move freely on its side of the bilayer, but is limited in its ability to jump to the other side.

Lipid mobility depends on the relative content and type of unsaturated fatty acids present. The hydrocarbon nature of fatty acid chains gives the membrane properties of fluidity, mobility. In the presence of cis-unsaturated fatty acids, the cohesive forces between chains are weaker than in the case of saturated fatty acids alone, and lipids retain high mobility even at low temperatures.

On the outer side of the membranes there are specific recognition sites, the function of which is to recognize certain molecular signals. For example, it is through the membrane that some bacteria perceive slight changes in nutrient concentration, which stimulates their movement towards the food source; this phenomenon is called chemotaxis.

The membranes of various cells and intracellular organelles have a certain specificity due to their structure, chemical composition and functions. The following main groups of membranes in eukaryotic organisms are distinguished:

plasma membrane (outer cell membrane, plasmalemma),

the nuclear membrane

The endoplasmic reticulum

membranes of the Golgi apparatus, mitochondria, chloroplasts, myelin sheaths,

excitable membranes.

In prokaryotic organisms, in addition to the plasma membrane, there are intracytoplasmic membrane formations; in heterotrophic prokaryotes, they are called mesosomes. The latter are formed by invagination into the outer cell membrane and in some cases remain in contact with it.

erythrocyte membrane consists of proteins (50%), lipids (40%) and carbohydrates (10%). The main part of carbohydrates (93%) is associated with proteins, the rest - with lipids. In the membrane, lipids are arranged asymmetrically in contrast to the symmetrical arrangement in micelles. For example, cephalin is found predominantly in the inner layer of lipids. This asymmetry is maintained, apparently, due to the transverse movement of phospholipids in the membrane, carried out with the help of membrane proteins and due to the energy of metabolism. In the inner layer of the erythrocyte membrane are mainly sphingomyelin, phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylserine, in the outer layer - phosphatidylcholine. The erythrocyte membrane contains an integral glycoprotein glycophorin, consisting of 131 amino acid residues and penetrating the membrane, and the so-called band 3 protein, consisting of 900 amino acid residues. The carbohydrate components of glycophorin perform a receptor function for influenza viruses, phytohemagglutinins, and a number of hormones. Another integral protein containing few carbohydrates and penetrating the membrane was also found in the erythrocyte membrane. He is called tunnel protein(component a), as it is assumed that it forms a channel for anions. The peripheral protein associated with the inner side of the erythrocyte membrane is spectrin.

Myelin membranes , surrounding axons of neurons, are multilayered, they contain a large amount of lipids (about 80%, half of them are phospholipids). The proteins of these membranes are important for the fixation of membrane salts lying one above the other.

chloroplast membranes. Chloroplasts are covered with a two-layer membrane. The outer membrane bears some resemblance to that of mitochondria. In addition to this surface membrane, chloroplasts have an internal membrane system - lamellae. Lamellae form or flattened vesicles - thylakoids, which, located one above the other, are collected in packs (grana) or form a membrane system of the stroma (stromal lamellae). Lamella gran and stroma on the outer side of the thylakoid membrane are concentrated hydrophilic groups, galacto- and sulfolipids. The phytolic part of the chlorophyll molecule is immersed in the globule and is in contact with the hydrophobic groups of proteins and lipids. The porphyrin nuclei of chlorophyll are mainly localized between the adjoining membranes of the thylakoids of the gran.

Inner (cytoplasmic) membrane of bacteria similar in structure to the inner membranes of chloroplasts and mitochondria. It contains enzymes of the respiratory chain, active transport; enzymes involved in the formation of membrane components. The predominant component of bacterial membranes are proteins: the protein/lipid ratio (by weight) is 3:1. The outer membrane of gram-negative bacteria, compared with the cytoplasmic one, contains a smaller amount of various phospholipids and proteins. Both membranes differ in lipid composition. The outer membrane contains proteins that form pores for the penetration of many low molecular weight substances. A characteristic component of the outer membrane is also a specific lipopolysaccharide. A number of outer membrane proteins serve as receptors for phages.

Virus membrane. Among viruses, membrane structures are characteristic of those containing a nucleocapsid, which consists of a protein and a nucleic acid. This "core" of viruses is surrounded by a membrane (envelope). It also consists of a bilayer of lipids with glycoproteins included in it, located mainly on the surface of the membrane. In a number of viruses (microviruses), 70-80% of all proteins enter the membranes, the remaining proteins are contained in the nucleocapsid.

Thus, cell membranes are very complex structures; their constituent molecular complexes form an ordered two-dimensional mosaic, which gives the membrane surface biological specificity.

biological membrane

Image of a cell membrane. Small blue and white balls correspond to the hydrophilic "heads" of lipids, and the lines attached to them correspond to the hydrophobic "tails". The figure shows only integral membrane proteins (red globules and yellow helices). Yellow oval dots inside the membrane - cholesterol molecules Yellow-green chains of beads on the outside of the membrane - oligosaccharide chains that form the glycocalyx

The biological membrane also includes various proteins: integral (penetrating the membrane through), semi-integral (immersed at one end into the outer or inner lipid layer), surface (located on the outer or adjacent to the inner sides of the membrane). Some proteins are the points of contact of the cell membrane with the cytoskeleton inside the cell, and the cell wall (if any) outside. Some of the integral proteins function as ion channels, various transporters, and receptors.

Functions of biomembranes

barrier - provides a regulated, selective, passive and active metabolism with the environment. For example, the peroxisome membrane protects the cytoplasm from peroxides dangerous to the cell. Selective permeability means that the permeability of a membrane to various atoms or molecules depends on their size, electrical charge, and chemical properties. Selective permeability ensures the separation of the cell and cellular compartments from the environment and supply them with the necessary substances.

transport - through the membrane there is a transport of substances into the cell and out of the cell. Transport through membranes provides: the delivery of nutrients, the removal of end products of metabolism, the secretion of various substances, the creation of ionic gradients, the maintenance of the appropriate pH and ionic concentration in the cell, which are necessary for the operation of cellular enzymes.

Particles that for some reason are not able to cross the phospholipid bilayer (for example, due to hydrophilic properties, since the membrane is hydrophobic inside and does not allow hydrophilic substances to pass through, or because of their large size), but necessary for the cell, can penetrate the membrane through special carrier proteins (transporters) and channel proteins or by endocytosis.

In passive transport, substances cross the lipid bilayer without energy expenditure, by diffusion. A variant of this mechanism is facilitated diffusion, in which a specific molecule helps a substance to pass through the membrane. This molecule may have a channel that allows only one type of substance to pass through.

Active transport requires energy, as it occurs against a concentration gradient. There are special pump proteins on the membrane, including ATPase, which actively pumps potassium ions (K +) into the cell and pumps sodium ions (Na +) out of it.

matrix - provides a certain relative position and orientation of membrane proteins, their optimal interaction;

mechanical - ensures the autonomy of the cell, its intracellular structures, as well as connection with other cells (in tissues). Cell walls play an important role in providing mechanical function, and in animals - intercellular substance.

energy - during photosynthesis in chloroplasts and cellular respiration in mitochondria, energy transfer systems operate in their membranes, in which proteins also participate;

receptor - some proteins sitting in the membrane are receptors (molecules with which the cell perceives certain signals).

For example, hormones circulating in the blood only act on target cells that have receptors corresponding to those hormones. Neurotransmitters (chemicals that conduct nerve impulses) also bind to specific receptor proteins on target cells.

enzymatic - membrane proteins are often enzymes. For example, the plasma membranes of intestinal epithelial cells contain digestive enzymes.

implementation of generation and conduction of biopotentials.

With the help of the membrane, a constant concentration of ions is maintained in the cell: the concentration of the K + ion inside the cell is much higher than outside, and the concentration of Na + is much lower, which is very important, since this maintains the potential difference across the membrane and generates a nerve impulse.

cell marking - there are antigens on the membrane that act as markers - "labels" that allow the cell to be identified. These are glycoproteins (that is, proteins with branched oligosaccharide side chains attached to them) that play the role of "antennas". Due to the myriad of side chain configurations, it is possible to make a specific marker for each cell type. With the help of markers, cells can recognize other cells and act in concert with them, for example, when forming organs and tissues. It also allows the immune system to recognize foreign antigens.

Structure and composition of biomembranes

Membranes are composed of three classes of lipids: phospholipids, glycolipids, and cholesterol. Phospholipids and glycolipids (lipids with carbohydrates attached to them) consist of two long hydrophobic hydrocarbon "tails" that are associated with a charged hydrophilic "head". Cholesterol stiffens the membrane by occupying the free space between the hydrophobic lipid tails and preventing them from bending. Therefore, membranes with a low cholesterol content are more flexible, while those with a high cholesterol content are more rigid and brittle. Cholesterol also serves as a “stopper” that prevents the movement of polar molecules from and into the cell. An important part of the membrane is made up of proteins penetrating it and responsible for various properties of membranes. Their composition and orientation in different membranes differ.

Cell membranes are often asymmetric, that is, the layers differ in lipid composition, the transition of an individual molecule from one layer to another (the so-called flip flop) is difficult.

Membrane organelles

These are closed single or interconnected sections of the cytoplasm, separated from the hyaloplasm by membranes. Single-membrane organelles include endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus, lysosomes, vacuoles, peroxisomes; to two-membrane - nucleus, mitochondria, plastids. Outside, the cell is limited by the so-called plasma membrane. The structure of the membranes of various organelles differs in the composition of lipids and membrane proteins.

Selective permeability

Cell membranes have selective permeability: glucose, amino acids, fatty acids, glycerol and ions slowly diffuse through them, and the membranes themselves actively regulate this process to a certain extent - some substances pass through, while others do not. There are four main mechanisms for the entry of substances into the cell or out of the cell: diffusion, osmosis, active transport and exo- or endocytosis. The first two processes are passive, i.e. do not require energy costs; the last two are active processes associated with energy consumption.

The selective permeability of the membrane during passive transport is due to special channels - integral proteins. They penetrate the membrane through and through, forming a kind of passage. The elements K, Na and Cl have their own channels. With respect to the concentration gradient, the molecules of these elements move in and out of the cell. When irritated, the sodium ion channels open, and there is a sharp influx of sodium ions into the cell. This results in an imbalance in the membrane potential. After that, the membrane potential is restored. Potassium channels are always open, through which potassium ions slowly enter the cell.

History of the discovery and research of the cell membrane

In 1925, Grendel and Gorder made a successful experiment to identify the "shadows" of erythrocytes, or empty shells. Despite several gross mistakes made, scientists discovered the lipid bilayer. Their work was continued by Danielli, Dawson in 1935, Robertson in 1960. As a result of many years of work and the accumulation of arguments in 1972, Singer and Nicholson created a fluid mosaic model of the structure of the membrane. Further experiments and studies confirmed the works of scientists.

Meaning

What is a cell membrane? This word began to be used more than a hundred years ago, translated from Latin it means "film", "skin". So designate the border of the cell, which is a natural barrier between the internal contents and the external environment. The structure of the cell membrane suggests semi-permeability, due to which moisture and nutrients and decay products can freely pass through it. This shell can be called the main structural component of the organization of the cell.

Consider the main functions of the cell membrane

1. Separates the internal contents of the cell and the components of the external environment.

2. Helps maintain a constant chemical composition of the cell.

3. Regulates the correct metabolism.

4. Provides interconnection between cells.

5. Recognizes signals.

6. Protection function.

"Plasma Shell"

The outer cell membrane, also called the plasma membrane, is an ultramicroscopic film that is five to seven nanometers thick. It consists mainly of protein compounds, phospholide, water. The film is elastic, easily absorbs water, and also quickly restores its integrity after damage.

Differs in a universal structure. This membrane occupies a boundary position, participates in the process of selective permeability, excretion of decay products, synthesizes them. The relationship with the "neighbors" and the reliable protection of the internal contents from damage makes it an important component in such a matter as the structure of the cell. The cell membrane of animal organisms sometimes turns out to be covered with the thinnest layer - glycocalyx, which includes proteins and polysaccharides. Plant cells outside the membrane are protected by a cell wall that acts as a support and maintains shape. The main component of its composition is fiber (cellulose) - a polysaccharide that is insoluble in water.

Thus, the outer cell membrane performs the function of repair, protection and interaction with other cells.

The structure of the cell membrane

The thickness of this movable shell varies from six to ten nanometers. The cell membrane of a cell has a special composition, the basis of which is the lipid bilayer. The hydrophobic tails, which are inert to water, are located on the inside, while the hydrophilic heads, which interact with water, are turned outward. Each lipid is a phospholipid, which is the result of the interaction of substances such as glycerol and sphingosine. The lipid scaffold is closely surrounded by proteins, which are located in a non-continuous layer. Some of them are immersed in the lipid layer, the rest pass through it. As a result, water-permeable areas are formed. The functions performed by these proteins are different. Some of them are enzymes, the rest are transport proteins that carry various substances from the external environment to the cytoplasm and vice versa.

The cell membrane is permeated through and closely connected with integral proteins, while the connection with peripheral ones is less strong. These proteins perform an important function, which is to maintain the structure of the membrane, receive and convert signals from the environment, transport substances, and catalyze reactions that occur on membranes.

Compound

The basis of the cell membrane is a bimolecular layer. Due to its continuity, the cell has barrier and mechanical properties. At different stages of life, this bilayer can be disrupted. As a result, structural defects of through hydrophilic pores are formed. In this case, absolutely all functions of such a component as a cell membrane can change. In this case, the nucleus may suffer from external influences.

Properties

The cell membrane of a cell has interesting features. Due to its fluidity, this shell is not a rigid structure, and the bulk of the proteins and lipids that make up its composition move freely on the plane of the membrane.

In general, the cell membrane is asymmetric, so the composition of the protein and lipid layers is different. Plasma membranes in animal cells have a glycoprotein layer on their outer side, which performs receptor and signal functions, and also plays an important role in the process of combining cells into tissue. The cell membrane is polar, that is, the charge on the outside is positive, and on the inside it is negative. In addition to all of the above, the cell membrane has selective insight.

This means that in addition to water, only a certain group of molecules and ions of dissolved substances are allowed into the cell. The concentration of a substance such as sodium in most cells is much lower than in the external environment. For potassium ions, a different ratio is characteristic: their number in the cell is much higher than in the environment. In this regard, sodium ions tend to penetrate the cell membrane, and potassium ions tend to be released outside. Under these circumstances, the membrane activates a special system that performs a “pumping” role, leveling the concentration of substances: sodium ions are pumped out to the cell surface, and potassium ions are pumped inward. This feature is included in the most important functions of the cell membrane.

This tendency of sodium and potassium ions to move inward from the surface plays a large role in the transport of sugar and amino acids into the cell. In the process of actively removing sodium ions from the cell, the membrane creates conditions for new inflows of glucose and amino acids inside. On the contrary, in the process of transferring potassium ions into the cell, the number of "transporters" of decay products from inside the cell to the external environment is replenished.

How is the cell nourished through the cell membrane?

Many cells take in substances through processes such as phagocytosis and pinocytosis. In the first variant, a small recess is created by a flexible outer membrane, in which the captured particle is located. Then the diameter of the recess becomes larger until the surrounded particle enters the cell cytoplasm. Through phagocytosis, some protozoa, such as amoeba, as well as blood cells - leukocytes and phagocytes, are fed. Similarly, cells absorb fluid that contains the necessary nutrients. This phenomenon is called pinocytosis.

The outer membrane is closely connected to the endoplasmic reticulum of the cell.

In many types of basic tissue components, protrusions, folds, and microvilli are located on the surface of the membrane. Plant cells on the outside of this shell are covered with another one, thick and clearly visible under a microscope. The fiber they are made of helps form the support for plant tissues such as wood. Animal cells also have a number of external structures that sit on top of the cell membrane. They are exclusively protective in nature, an example of this is the chitin contained in the integumentary cells of insects.

In addition to the cell membrane, there is an intracellular membrane. Its function is to divide the cell into several specialized closed compartments - compartments or organelles, where a certain environment must be maintained.

Thus, it is impossible to overestimate the role of such a component of the basic unit of a living organism as a cell membrane. The structure and functions imply a significant expansion of the total cell surface area, improvement of metabolic processes. This molecular structure consists of proteins and lipids. Separating the cell from the external environment, the membrane ensures its integrity. With its help, intercellular bonds are maintained at a sufficiently strong level, forming tissues. In this regard, we can conclude that one of the most important roles in the cell is played by the cell membrane. The structure and functions performed by it are radically different in different cells, depending on their purpose. Through these features, a variety of physiological activity of cell membranes and their roles in the existence of cells and tissues is achieved.

Membrane (biology)

Functions of biomembranes

barrier - provides a regulated, selective, passive and active metabolism with the environment. For example, the peroxisome membrane protects the cytoplasm from peroxides dangerous to the cell. Selective permeability means that the permeability of a membrane to various atoms or molecules depends on their size, electrical charge, and chemical properties. Selective permeability ensures the separation of the cell and cellular compartments from the environment and supply them with the necessary substances.

transport - through the membrane there is a transport of substances into the cell and out of the cell. Transport through membranes provides: the delivery of nutrients, the removal of end products of metabolism, the secretion of various substances, the creation of ionic gradients, the maintenance of the appropriate pH and ionic concentration in the cell, which are necessary for the operation of cellular enzymes.

matrix - provides a certain relative position and orientation of membrane proteins, their optimal interaction;

mechanical - ensures the autonomy of the cell, its intracellular structures, as well as connection with other cells (in tissues). Cell walls play an important role in providing mechanical function, and in animals - intercellular substance.

energy - during photosynthesis in chloroplasts and cellular respiration in mitochondria, energy transfer systems operate in their membranes, in which proteins also participate;

receptor - some proteins sitting in the membrane are receptors (molecules with which the cell perceives certain signals).

enzymatic - membrane proteins are often enzymes. For example, the plasma membranes of intestinal epithelial cells contain digestive enzymes.

implementation of generation and conduction of biopotentials.

cell marking - there are antigens on the membrane that act as markers - "labels" that allow the cell to be identified. These are glycoproteins (that is, proteins with branched oligosaccharide side chains attached to them) that play the role of "antennas". Due to the myriad of side chain configurations, it is possible to make a specific marker for each cell type. With the help of markers, cells can recognize other cells and act in concert with them, for example, when forming organs and tissues. It also allows the immune system to recognize foreign antigens.

Structure and composition of biomembranes

Cell membranes are often asymmetric, that is, the layers differ in lipid composition, the transition of an individual molecule from one layer to another (the so-called flip flop) is difficult.

Cell membrane: its structure and functions. What is a membrane? The structure and function of the membrane What is a cell membrane definition

Cell membrane and its types

The structure of the cell membrane

Basic properties of the plasma membrane

Functions of the outer membrane of the cell

What is the importance of the cell membrane

Functions of biomembranes

Structure and composition of biomembranes

Membrane organelles

Selective permeability

Links

see also

See what the "Biological membrane" is in other dictionaries:

History of the discovery and research of the cell membrane

Meaning

Consider the main functions of the cell membrane

"Plasma Shell"

The structure of the cell membrane

Compound

Properties

How is the cell nourished through the cell membrane?

Functions of biomembranes

Structure and composition of biomembranes

Membrane organelles

Selective permeability