Lipidikalvo

Lipidikalvo is a Finnish term that translates to lipid bilayer or biological membrane. It refers to a stable biomolecular structure that forms the boundary of all cells and organelles. This structure is primarily composed of two layers of phospholipid molecules. Each phospholipid molecule has a hydrophilic (water-attracting) head and a hydrophobic (water-repelling) tail. In an aqueous environment, these molecules spontaneously arrange themselves into a bilayer with the hydrophilic heads facing outwards towards the water and the hydrophobic tails facing inwards, away from the water.

This arrangement creates a stable barrier that is selectively permeable, meaning it controls the passage of substances into and out of the cell or organelle. Embedded within or attached to this lipid bilayer are various proteins, which perform a wide range of functions, including transport, signaling, and enzymatic activity. The lipid bilayer is not a rigid structure but is fluid, allowing for movement of its components. This fluidity is crucial for many cellular processes, such as cell division and membrane fusion. The lipid kalvo is fundamental to the existence and function of all known life forms.