Characteristics and Functions of the Plasma Membrane
Plasma membranes are complex biological structures that form selective, dynamic barriers between distinct compartments. Prokaryotic cells feature a single plasma membrane, whereas eukaryotic cells contain numerous internal membranes that form various intracellular organelles.
The plasma membrane separates the cytoplasm from the extracellular environment, and organelle membranes delineate the internal lumen of organelles from the cytosol. Composed primarily of a fluid lipid bilayer, these membranes are rich in associated molecules, including proteins, glycoproteins, and glycolipids.
The following chapters will discuss the different components of the plasma membrane, including lipids, proteins, and carbohydrates, along with their functions. We will also examine the essential properties of the plasma membrane, such as its fluidity and permeability, to provide a clear understanding of how it operates within the cell.
- Membrane Lipids
- Membrane Proteins
- Membrane Carbohydrates
- Properties of the Plasma Membrane
- Cell Adhesion and Extracellular Matrix