MEMBRANE SKELETON Meaning and
Definition
-
A membrane skeleton refers to a network of proteins that provide structural support and regulate various cellular functions within the plasma membrane of a cell. It consists of a complex arrangement of cytoskeletal proteins, including actin filaments, spectrin, ankyrin, and other associated proteins.
The membrane skeleton plays a vital role in maintaining the shape and integrity of the cell by providing a scaffold for the plasma membrane. It is responsible for imparting mechanical strength to the cell and helps in resisting deformation caused by external forces. Additionally, the membrane skeleton acts as a barrier for diffusion of molecules across the plasma membrane and regulates the movement of integral membrane proteins.
The main component of the membrane skeleton, actin filaments, are interconnected by various actin-binding proteins to form a dense network underneath the plasma membrane. Spectrin, a key protein in the membrane skeleton, crosslinks and stabilizes actin filaments, contributing to its structural integrity. Ankyrin proteins anchor the membrane skeleton to the plasma membrane by binding to transmembrane proteins, ensuring proper localization and function of integral membrane proteins.
Overall, the membrane skeleton is essential for maintaining the shape, stability, and dynamic functions of the plasma membrane. It serves as a mechanical scaffold, regulates protein localization and trafficking, and contributes to cell signaling and membrane organization.
Common Misspellings for MEMBRANE SKELETON
- nembrane skeleton
- kembrane skeleton
- jembrane skeleton
- mwmbrane skeleton
- msmbrane skeleton
- mdmbrane skeleton
- mrmbrane skeleton
- m4mbrane skeleton
- m3mbrane skeleton
- menbrane skeleton
- mekbrane skeleton
- mejbrane skeleton
- memvrane skeleton
- memnrane skeleton
- memhrane skeleton
- memgrane skeleton
- membeane skeleton
- membdane skeleton
- membfane skeleton
- membtane skeleton
Etymology of MEMBRANE SKELETON
The etymology of the word "membrane" can be traced back to the Latin word "membrāna", which translates to "parchment" or "thin layer". In medicine, membrane refers to a thin, flexible layer of tissue that covers or lines various parts of the body.
The term "skeleton" comes from the Greek word "skēlētos", meaning "dried up" or "mummy". Skeleton refers to the rigid, internal framework of bones that provides support and structure to the bodies of humans and many animals.
When referring to the "membrane skeleton", the term is used metaphorically to describe a network of proteins located beneath the cell membrane that gives shape, strength, and stability to a cell. The term likely originated from the concept of the cell's internal framework functioning similarly to the human skeletal system but in the context of membranes.
