Key Parts of the Cell Membrane and What They Do
The cell membrane, also called the plasma membrane, is super important because it helps keep balance inside the cell and controls what comes in and goes out. Here are the main parts of the cell membrane:
Phospholipids: These make up about 40-50% of the membrane. They form a double layer that helps the membrane stay flexible and allows proteins and lipids to move around easily.
Proteins: Around 50-60% of the membrane is made of proteins. These are key for moving substances in and out, getting signals from outside, and helping cells talk to each other. Some proteins cross the entire membrane, while others are just stuck to its surface.
Carbohydrates: These are found on the outside of the membrane and make up about 2-10% of it. They help the cell recognize other cells and send signals. Glycoproteins and glycolipids are examples of carbohydrates that help with the immune system.
Cholesterol: Making up about 20-30% of the membrane, cholesterol molecules help keep the membrane stable. They keep it strong and prevent small water-soluble substances from passing through too easily.
Each of these parts plays an important role in helping the cell membrane do its job!
Key Parts of the Cell Membrane and What They Do
The cell membrane, also called the plasma membrane, is super important because it helps keep balance inside the cell and controls what comes in and goes out. Here are the main parts of the cell membrane:
Phospholipids: These make up about 40-50% of the membrane. They form a double layer that helps the membrane stay flexible and allows proteins and lipids to move around easily.
Proteins: Around 50-60% of the membrane is made of proteins. These are key for moving substances in and out, getting signals from outside, and helping cells talk to each other. Some proteins cross the entire membrane, while others are just stuck to its surface.
Carbohydrates: These are found on the outside of the membrane and make up about 2-10% of it. They help the cell recognize other cells and send signals. Glycoproteins and glycolipids are examples of carbohydrates that help with the immune system.
Cholesterol: Making up about 20-30% of the membrane, cholesterol molecules help keep the membrane stable. They keep it strong and prevent small water-soluble substances from passing through too easily.
Each of these parts plays an important role in helping the cell membrane do its job!