Is the function of lipids the same in cell membranes as elsewhere?
the function of lipids in the cell membrane is to create the lipid bilayer which makes up the cell membrane. The lipid bilayer prevents polar solutes (e.g. amino acids, nucleic acids, carbohydrates, proteins, and ions) from diffusing across the membrane, but generally allows for the passive diffusion of hydrophobic molecules. This affords the cell the ability to control the movement of these substances via transmembrane protein complexes such as pores and gates. Hope that helps…don’t forget to draw diagrams and include notes on the hydrophilic and hydrophobic portions of the lipid molecules as this is very important. Good luck!
