Question

What are three potential functions of transmembrane proteins and why are they important?

Answer 1

Three potential functions of transmembrane proteins are:

1. Transport of molecules across the plasma membrane.

2. They binds to the extracellular signal and act as receptor.

3. They help in attachment of cell to extracellular matrix.

IMPORTANCE OF TRANSMEMBRANE PROTEINS

Cells have transporter for only those molecules, which are important for cellular metabolism. In this way only selected molecules or compounds are allowed to enter into the cell. This is only due to specialised transmembrane proteins which forms transporters. For example- GLUT4 (insulin regulated glucose transporter).

Cell respond to their enviornment. Response to enviornment is necessary for a cell to live. This response is generated by recieving signals from the enviornment. Again receptors of extracellular signals are transmembrane proteins. For example - GPCR (G - protein coupled receptor).

In animals, cells remain attached to extracellular matrix. This attachment keep cells in a particular position. In a tissue cells must remain at fixed position to ensure proper functioning of that tissue. This attachment is also provided by transmembrane proteins. For example - Integrin

Transmembrane proteins also contribute in maintenance of concentration gradients across plasma membranes.