Cell Membranes
Phospholipids: foundation of cell membrane
Hydrophilic: polar, water loving head made of phospholipid.
Hydrophobic: nonpolar, water fearing tails made of 2 fatty acid chains
The cholesterol makes the phospholipid bilayer less fluid at moderate temperatures, but slightly more liquid than it normally would be at cold temperatures. This helps maintain its functionality and strength over a wide range of temperatures.
Proposes that proteins float in the fluid lipid bilayer (like boats on a pond)
It states that proteins float in the lipid bilayer, some anchored, others floating freely. Occasional cholesterol molecules add extra fluidity. Because it is fluid, the membrane's shape may be altered.
[Animation of Fluid Mosaic Model of Plasma Membranes (shows proteins floating in & moving around membrane)]
[Animation of Fluid Mosaic Model of Plasma Membranes (shorter - shows proteins floating in & moving around membrane)]
[Proteins on the Plasma Membrane] - Notes
[Proteins on the Plasma Membrane] - Diagram
Notes: Transport across plasma membranes
