How Do You Spell PLASMALEMMA?

Pronunciation: [plˈazme͡ɪlmə] (IPA)

The word "plasmalemma" is often misspelled due to its complex spelling. It is pronounced /plæz.məˈlɛm.ə/. The first two syllables of the word, "plasma," are pronounced /ˈplæz.mə/. The "le" in "lemma" is pronounced as /lɛ/ and is followed by the double "m" sound, represented by /m/. The final syllable, "a," is pronounced with a short "uh" sound, written as /ə/. The correct spelling of "plasmalemma" may be difficult, but understanding its phonetic transcription can help improve spelling accuracy.

PLASMALEMMA Meaning and Definition

1. The term "plasmalemma" refers to the outer boundary of a cell, also known as the plasma membrane. It is a significant component that surrounds the cytoplasm, separating the internal components of the cell from its external environment. The plasmalemma plays a critical role in maintaining cell integrity and regulating the movement of substances into and out of the cell.

   Composed primarily of a lipid bilayer, the plasmalemma consists of phospholipids, cholesterol, and proteins that are responsible for its structure and function. The lipid bilayer provides a selectively permeable barrier that controls the transport of ions, molecules, and other cellular components. Various proteins embedded within the plasmalemma, such as channel proteins, carrier proteins, and receptor proteins, facilitate or regulate the movement of specific substances.

   Additionally, the plasmalemma is involved in several essential cellular processes. It mediates cell signaling by harboring receptors that recognize and respond to extracellular molecules, initiating intracellular signaling pathways and transmitting information across the cell. The plasmalemma also plays a role in cell adhesion, allowing cells to adhere to neighboring cells or the extracellular matrix, which is crucial for tissue formation and maintenance.

   Overall, the plasmalemma is a vital component of a cell, acting as a protective barrier that controls the exchange of materials and information between the cell and its environment. Its structure and functions are fundamental to the maintenance of cellular homeostasis and the proper functioning of the organism as a whole.

Etymology of PLASMALEMMA

The word "plasmalemma" is derived from two Greek words: "plasma" and "lemma".

"Plasma" comes from the Greek word "plassein", which means "to mold" or "to shape". In this context, plasma refers to the liquid component of the cytoplasm, which is involved in various cellular functions.

"Lemma" comes from the Greek word "lambanein", which means "to take" or "to seize". In this context, it refers to the membrane or the outer covering of the cell.

Therefore, when combined, "plasma" and "lemma" give us the term "plasmalemma", which refers to the outer layer or the membrane surrounding the cytoplasm of the cell.

Plural form of PLASMALEMMA is PLASMALEMMAS