Question

Plasma Membrane. What is the composition of plasma membrane (PM) of a bacterial cell? How does this compare to a eukaryotic cell? List the functions of the PM. Without complex internal membranes, where do prokaryotes carry out membrane-bound chemical reactions such as ATP synthesis or photosynthesis?

Answer 1

A) Composition of plasma membrane (PM) of a bacterial cell :

Plasma membrane of a bacterial cell is composed of a bilayer made of phospholipids. It also consists of proteins:

- peripheral proteins : These proteins function to use enzymes to catalyze reactions and support membrane shape.

- integral proteins : These proteins used as channels for transporter in signal transduction.


B) Comparison to a eukaryotic cell :

Bacterial cells have ATP in Plasma membrane and eukaryotic cells have chloroplasts.

C) Functions of the PM :

- Plasma membrane is selective barrier.

- contains pigments for photosynthesis.

- breaks down nutrients and produce ATP.

- PM also regulates movement via simple diffusion, osmosis etc. Here, production of energy takes place.

D) Without complex internal membranes, prokaryotes carry out membrane bound chemical reactions such as ATP synthesis or photosynthesis in the plasma membrane foldings.