lipiidmembraani

The lipiidmembraani, commonly known as the cell membrane or plasma membrane, is a vital structure found in all living cells. It acts as a selectively permeable barrier, regulating the passage of substances into and out of the cell. This membrane is primarily composed of a phospholipid bilayer, where hydrophilic phosphate heads face outwards towards the aqueous environment and hydrophobic fatty acid tails face inwards, creating a stable internal structure. Embedded within or attached to this lipid bilayer are various proteins that perform a multitude of functions, including transport of molecules, signal transduction, and cell recognition. Cholesterol molecules are also often interspersed within the phospholipid bilayer, influencing membrane fluidity. The lipiidmembraani is not a static structure; it is a dynamic fluid mosaic, allowing components to move laterally, which is essential for many cellular processes. It plays a critical role in maintaining cell integrity, facilitating communication between cells, and compartmentalizing cellular functions within organelles in eukaryotic cells.