An In-depth Overview of the Cell Membrane

What does the cell membrane do? Any idea as to some of the key functions of the cell membrane? Find out in a brief. 

The cell membrane can be defined as the semi-permeable membrane surrounding the cytoplasm of a cell. The lipid bi-layer that encloses the cell performs several vital functions we are going to discuss in a bit. But for now, let us look at the cell membrane structure to help us understand the functions of this thin sheet of tissue. 

The Cell Membrane Structure 

It goes without saying that the cell membrane tissue is composed of four different types of molecules: 

1. Lipids—lipids can make up anywhere between 20 and 80 percent of the membrane. The rest is cholesterol, carbohydrates as well as microtubule-associated proteins (MAPs). Lipids help to give the cell membrane its flexibility, which is vital for its functions. 

Phospholipids are a special type of lipids that are extremely important for the membrane. These lipids feature hydrophilic head areas and hydrophobic tail areas. (Hydrophilic means attracted to water whereas hydrophobic means repelled by water). 

Nonetheless, the lipids work by forming a lipid bi-layer whereby their head areas spontaneously arrange to face the aqueous cytosol (the fluid found inside the cell) and the extracellular(outside of the cell) fluid. On the other hand, their tail areas face away from the cytosol and extracellular fluid. It should be noted that the semi-permeable bi-layer allows only certain molecules to diffuse across the membrane. 

Additionally, the lipid component also contains cholesterol and glycolipids molecules whose primary functions are to protect the cell membrane from becoming stiff and enable the cell to recognize other fellow cells of the body. 

2. Proteins—the cell membrane has two types of proteins; 

• Peripheral membrane proteins.

• Integral membrane proteins. 

The former are exterior to the membrane and hooked to it by way of interaction with other proteins. On the other hand, the latter are planted into the membrane and most pass through the membrane with portions of them exposed on both sides of it. 

Peripheral and integral proteins perform important functions. These including monitoring and maintaining the chemical environment of the cell, helping in the transfer of molecules across the membrane and giving it a structural support. 

What Does the cell membrane Do? 

The tissue plays two primary roles: 

1. It acts as the cell’s physical barrier, barring substances that could get into the interior of the cell to cause damage. 

2. The cell membrane controls the process of the exchange of materials with the external environment. This is extremely crucial since some substances could easily disrupt things, causing a lot of problems as a result. 

Cell membrane Disorders 

Can the cell membrane be affected by any diseases? Of course, yes. The membrane is prone to any disease that may compromise the integrity of the cell. One common cell membrane disorder is cystic fibrosis. 

This is a genetic disorder that affects the cell’s integrity by interfering with its ability to secret sufficient water. When it occurs in the lung cells, the mucus becomes extremely thick. Consequently, the patient will suffer from a wide variety of symptoms including but not limited to wheezing, breathing with a difficulty, exercise intolerance, and persistent cough. N addition, they become susceptible to infection due to excessive mucus build up. If not treated properly, this could result in a loss of life. 

Treatment Options 

• Administration of antibiotics to treat and prevent chest infections.

• Administration of drugs to reduce the mucus thickness and ease the cough up.

• Administration of drugs to expand the airways and reduce inflammation.

• Application of special techniques using certain devices to help eliminate mucus from the lungs.

• A lung transplant operation, especially if the organs have become severely damaged. 

Final Thoughts 

It is my hope that now you understand what the cell membrane really is, including its structures plus the primary roles it plays. Finally, I believe you are now aware of one of the common cell membrane disorders and the possible treatment options available. It is important to note, however, that most cell membrane diseases are genetically passed down from a parent to a child. Without nothing more to add, this article comes to an end.