Membranomsluttede

Membranomsluttede is a Danish term used in biology to describe structures that are enclosed by a biological membrane. The word is formed from membran- (relating to a membrane) and omsluttede (enclosed). In practice, membranomsluttede structures are typically lipid bilayer–bound compartments that separate their internal environment from the cytosol, contributing to compartmentalization and specialized chemical conditions within the cell.

In cell biology, the concept contrasts with non-membranous components such as ribosomes or protein complexes that lack a surrounding membrane. Many eukaryotic organelles are membranomsluttede, including the nucleus, mitochondria, chloroplasts, endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus, lysosomes, peroxisomes, vacuoles, and vesicles. The term thus highlights the presence of a limiting membrane that can regulate exchange with the cytosol and create distinct internal milieus.

The term is primarily used in Danish-language texts and is largely equivalent to the English term "membrane-bound." In English literature, membrane-bound is the more common expression. The concept can also apply to membrane-bound compartments within prokaryotic cells that possess internal membranes, such as thylakoid-like membranes in certain cyanobacteria, though such cases are less frequently described in English-language sources.

In summary, membranomsluttede describes membrane-encased compartments that enable cellular organization through compartmentalization, selective transport, and specialized environments, a fundamental aspect of cellular architecture.