Phospholipid bilayer
Phospholipid Bilayer
The Phospholipid Bilayer (pronunciation: /ˈfɒsfəˌlɪpɪd ˈbaɪˌleɪər/) is a fundamental component of all cell membranes. It is a two-layered arrangement of phosphate and lipid molecules that form a cell's outer membrane.
Etymology
The term "Phospholipid Bilayer" is derived from the Greek words "phosphoros" (meaning light-bringer), "lipos" (meaning fat), and "bi" (meaning two). The term "bilayer" refers to the structure's two-layered formation.
Structure
The structure of the Phospholipid Bilayer is composed of two layers of phospholipids. Each phospholipid molecule contains a hydrophilic (water-attracting) phosphate head and two hydrophobic (water-repelling) fatty acid tails. The hydrophilic heads are attracted to water, while the hydrophobic tails repel water and are attracted to each other. This results in a bilayer where the hydrophilic heads face outwards towards the water and the hydrophobic tails face inwards, away from the water.
Function
The primary function of the Phospholipid Bilayer is to provide a flexible, semi-permeable barrier between the cell and its environment. It controls the movement of substances in and out of the cell, allowing some substances to pass through while keeping others out. This selective permeability is crucial for the cell's survival and function.
Related Terms
- Cell Membrane
- Phospholipids
- Phosphate
- Lipid
- Fatty Acid
- Hydrophilic
- Hydrophobic
- Selective Permeability
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Phospholipid bilayer
- Wikipedia's article - Phospholipid bilayer
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