The fluid mosaic model of cell membrane was first proposed by S.J. There are restrictions to lateral movements, and subdomains within the cell membrane have distinct functions. It describes the structure of cell membranes where a flexible lipid layer is spread with large protein molecules that act as channels through which other molecules enter and exit any cell.Īccording to this model, the components of a membrane such as proteins or glycolipids, form a mobile mosaic in the fluid-like environment created by a sea of phospholipids. It acts as a gate allowing transport into the cell of essential nutrients and movement from the cell of waste products. It acts as a barrier keeping the constituents of the cell in and unwanted substances out. Hence, the cell membrane has two functions: Outside the cell are nutrients that the cell must absorb to live and grow as well as ions, acids, and alkalis that are toxic to the cell. Within the cell are its components, often large, water-soluble, highly charged molecules such as nucleic acids, proteins, carbohydrates, and substances that are involved in cellular metabolism. It delimits the cell from the environment around it. Cell membrane which is also called the plasma membrane is a thin membrane that surrounds every living cell.
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