Imagine protein X, destined to span theplasma membrane. Assume that the mRNA carrying the geneticmessage for protein X has already been translated by ribosomesin a cell culture. If you fractionate the cells (see Figure 6.4), inwhich fraction would you find protein X? Explain by describingits transit through the cell.
Structure and Composition of Cell Membrane
Despite differences in structure and function, all living cells in multicellular organisms are surrounded by a cell membrane. Just like the outer layer of the skin separates the body from its environment similarly, the cell membrane, also known as 'plasma membrane,' separates the inner content from its exterior environment.
Cell Membrane
The cell membrane is known by different names like plasma membrane or cytoplasmic membrane, or biological membrane. The term "cell membrane" was first introduced by C. Nageli and C. Cramer in the year 1855. Later on, in 1931, the term "plasmalemma" for cell membrane was given by J. Plowe. The cell membrane separates the cell's internal environment from the extracellular space. This separation allows the protection of cells from their environment.
Prokaryotes vs Eukaryotes
The cell is defined as the basic structural and functional unit of life. The cell membrane bounds it. It is capable of independent existence.
Imagine protein X, destined to span the
plasma membrane. Assume that the mRNA carrying the genetic
message for protein X has already been translated by ribosomes
in a cell culture. If you fractionate the cells (see Figure 6.4), in
which fraction would you find protein X? Explain by describing
its transit through the cell.
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