Life: The Science of Biology 11th Edition

Published by W. H. Freeman
ISBN 10: 1-31901-016-4
ISBN 13: 978-1-31901-016-4

Chapter 6 - Cell Membranes - 6.1 - Biological Membranes Are Lipid-Protein Bilayers - 6.1 Recap - Learning Outcomes - Page 115: 1

Answer

In the fluid mosaic model, the proteins are embedded in the membrane as if suspended in a fluid. Proteins are oriented so that hydrophobic regions remain hidden on the inside of the bilayer and hydrophilic regions are exposed. Cholesterol molecules in the model help maintain fluidity, and glycoproteins and glycolipids are displayed on the surface for cell identification. Collagen in the extracellular matrix is there to provide structural support.

Work Step by Step

In the fluid mosaic model, the proteins are embedded in the membrane as if suspended in a fluid. Proteins are oriented so that hydrophobic regions remain hidden on the inside of the bilayer and hydrophilic regions are exposed. Cholesterol molecules in the model help maintain fluidity, and glycoproteins and glycolipids are displayed on the surface for cell identification.
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