Short Note on Plasma Membrane (Cell Membrane)

Plasma Membrane (Cell Membrane) Definition:

An outermost envelope-like membrane or a structure, which surrounds the cell and its organelles is called the cell membrane.

Discovery:

Cell membrane was discovered by American biologists Garth L. Nicolson and Seymour Jonathan Singer.

Structure of Plasma Membrane (Cell Membrane):

• Mainly composed of carbohydrates, phospholipids, proteins, and conjugated molecules.
• About 5 to 8 nm in thickness.
• Flexible, lipid bilayer that surrounds and contains the cytoplasm of the cell. 
• Based on the arrangement of molecules and the presence of certain specialized components, it is also referred to as the fluid mosaic model.
• The fluid mosaic model describes the cell membrane in detail with all its components.
• Components give a fluid appearance to the plasma membrane.

Also Check – Cell membrane (Plasma Membrane )- Structure, Composition, Characteristics and 6 Important Functions

Plasma Membrane (Cell Membrane) Diagram

Functions of Plasma Membrane (Cell Membrane):

• A physical barrier between the external environment and the inner cell organelles.
• Permits the movement of only certain molecules both in and out of the cell.
• Plays an important role in both the endocytosis and exocytosis processes.
• Functions by facilitating communication and signaling between the cells.
• Plays a vital role in anchoring the cytoskeleton to provide shape to the cell and also maintain the cell potential.

Also Check – Endocytosis –Definition, Mechanism, Types, Examples

Also check – What would happen if the Plasma Membrane Ruptures or Breakdown?

Also check – 11 Difference between Cell Wall and Cell Membrane (Plasma Membrane)

Also Check – Differences and Differences Between Endocytosis and Exocytosis 

Also check – Types of Transport Across Cell Membrane

Also check – 6 Important Functions of Plasma Membrane