Structure
What is the main component of the membrane?
Phospholipid bilayer
What is the main function of the membrane?
Barrier / protection / regulates what enters and leaves
What is a ligand?
A signaling molecule that binds to a receptor
What is signal transduction?
Converting an extracellular signal into a cellular response
Why is the membrane important for transplantation?
It determines compatibility and immune recognition
What does "hydrophilic" mean?
Water-soluble / water-loving
What does "semi-permeable" mean?
Lets some things through but not others.
What is a receptor?
A protein that receives signals
What is a second messenger?
A small molecule that carries signals inside the cell
How can receptor problems affect stem cells?
Blocked signaling → no growth/differentiation
What does "hydrophobic" mean?
Water-insoluble / water-fearing
How does cholesterol help the membrane?
Stabilizes the membrane and controls permeability.
Name one type of membrane receptor
Ion channel-linked, GPCR, enzyme-linked, or RIP
What does a kinase do?
Adds phosphate groups to proteins
Why do blood types depend on carbohydrates?
Carbohydrates act as identification markers on the membrane
Describe the phospholipid bilayer.
Two layers of phospholipids; heads out, tails in
What is the role of carbohydrates?
Cell identification
How does an ion channel-linked receptor work?
Ligand binds → channel opens/closes → ions flow
What happens after a ligand binds to a receptor?
Receptor activates intracellular signaling proteins → cellular response
What happens if EGF receptor signaling is blocked?
Cells cannot proliferate → poor wound healing
Why is the membrane called a bilayer?
Because it has two layers
How do proteins help the cell?
Transport materials across the membrane
What is the difference between GPCR and enzyme-linked receptor?
GPCR uses G protein; enzyme-linked acts directly as kinase
Why is signal transduction important for the cell?
Allows the cell to respond to its environment
How would you explain membrane receptors to a patient?
They're like antennas that receive signals