Abstract
The cell membrane was initially considered only as a barrier delimiting the cytoplasm from the extracellular environment but further research revealed that the cell membrane has a number of functions that are essential to the cell [1]. Structurally, the cell membrane is formed by a lipid bilayer (Fig. 3.1), with each of the two layers composed of molecules called phospholipids. The lipid component is, by definition, water-repellent, while the phosphate component is hydrophilic. The membrane is formed as the phosphate moves toward the outer surface of the cell, attracted by the aqueous environment, which the inwards-oriented lipids seek to escape. An additional and very important component of this double lipid structure consists of the membrane proteins.
Original language | English |
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Title of host publication | Cellular Physiology and Metabolism of Physical Exercise |
Publisher | Springer-Verlag Italia s.r.l. |
Pages | 17-21 |
Number of pages | 5 |
Volume | 9788847024182 |
ISBN (Print) | 9788847024182, 884702417X, 9788847024175 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - Aug 1 2012 |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Medicine(all)