cytomembrane

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cytomembrane

A student examines a diagram of a cell's cytomembrane in a biology textbook.

Definition
  1. Noun:
    • A thin membrane enclosing the cytoplasm of a cell: The cytomembrane is a biological structure that forms the outer boundary of a cell, separating its internal contents from the external environment. It is primarily composed of a double layer of lipids (a phospholipid bilayer).
    • A regulator of cellular transport: Proteins embedded within the cytomembrane control the selective passage of ions (such as sodium, potassium, or calcium) and other molecules into and out of the cell, maintaining the cell's internal balance.
Usage Examples
  • Noun:
    • The integrity of the cytomembrane is crucial for cell survival.
    • Scientists study how specific proteins in the cytomembrane facilitate communication between cells.
    • Damage to the cytomembrane can lead to the leakage of vital cellular components.
Advanced Usage

  • "Integral to the cytomembrane": Refers to proteins that are firmly embedded within the lipid bilayer.

    • Ion channels are integral to the cytomembrane, allowing specific ions to cross.

  • "Fluidity of the cytomembrane": Describes the flexible, dynamic nature of the lipid bilayer, which is essential for various cellular functions.

    • Cholesterol helps maintain the proper fluidity of the cytomembrane.
Variants and Related Words

  • Cell membrane (n): The most common synonym for cytomembrane; the semipermeable membrane surrounding the cytoplasm.

    • The cell membrane is also known as the plasma membrane.

  • Plasma membrane (n): Another exact synonym for cytomembrane, frequently used in biological contexts.

    • Transport across the plasma membrane is a tightly regulated process.

  • Phospholipid bilayer (n): The fundamental structural component of the cytomembrane.

    • The cytomembrane's structure is described as a phospholipid bilayer.
Synonyms
  • Cell membrane: The semipermeable membrane surrounding the cytoplasm.
  • Plasma membrane: The membrane forming the outer limit of a cell's cytoplasm.
  • Biological membrane: A broader term for a membrane enclosing a cell or organelle.
Related Phrases

  • Cytomembrane protein: A protein associated with or embedded in the cytomembrane.

    • This cytomembrane protein acts as a receptor for hormones.

  • Cytomembrane permeability: The property of the membrane that determines which substances can pass through it.

    • The cytomembrane's permeability is altered during certain diseases.
cytomembrane

A student examines a diagram of a cell's cytomembrane in a biology textbook.

Noun
  1. a thin membrane (a double layer of lipids) enclosing the cytoplasm of a cell; proteins in the membrane control passage of ions (like sodium or potassium or calcium) in and out of the cell
    • all cells have a cell membrane

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