Cells
Question

What is the role of proteins within a plasma membrane?

1 year ago

·

3 Replies

·

1675 views

T

Talon Jaskolski


Need help with your studies? Find a qualified and experienced tutor on Sherpa.

Find a Tutor

3 Answers

N
Natalie

Membrane proteins mediate actions that are critical to the survival of biological cells. Membrane-embedded transporters carry ions and bigger solutes across membranes, receptors facilitate cell-to-cell communication, and membrane-embedded enzymes catalyse chemical processes.

Aqeel A Profile Picture

Verified Sherpa Tutor

Mnemonic (JET RAT)


Junctions – Serve to connect and join two cells together 

Enzymes – Fixing to membranes localises metabolic pathways 

Transport – Responsible for facilitated diffusion and active transport 


Recognition – May function as markers for cellular identification 

Anchorage – Attachment points for cytoskeleton and extracellular matrix 

Transduction – Function as receptors for peptide hormones


Enthusiastic maths and science tutor with over 5 years of experience.

Interested in booking a 1-1 lesson with me?

Click here to view my profile and send me a message.
Parth Profile Picture

Verified Sherpa Tutor

Proteins have many roles within a plasma membrane. Proteins in the form of carrier proteins are involved in active transport of molecules both in and out of a cell. Porteins in the form of channel proteins are involved in the passive transport of molecules down the concentration gradient (either in or out of the cell). Proteins can also play a key role in cell adhesion (glycoproteins) or cell signalling (glycoproteins).

UCL Medical student with 3 years of tutoring experience

Interested in booking a 1-1 lesson with me?

Click here to view my profile and send me a message.