Composition, Functions and Significance of Cell Membranes: Insights from Biomembrane Omics
Composition of Membrane
The membrane composition in eukaryotic cells comprises lipids and proteins that combine to form an asymmetric bilayer consisting of inner and outer leaflets. The primary function of this lipid bilayer is to act as a structural barrier and provide a foundation for extracellular sensing. The remainder of the membrane is composed of proteins, which are distributed in a mosaic-like arrangement, with some proteins embedded on the membrane surface and others spanning the lipid bilayer. The unique properties and functions of the membrane are determined by the specific types of proteins present, the asymmetry of protein distribution, and the synergistic interaction with lipids.
