Plasma Membrane

Front 1

Phospholipids

Back 1

The phospholipids in the plasma membrane are arranged in two layers, called a phospholipid bilayer. Each phospholipid molecule has a head and two tails. The head “loves” water (hydrophilic) and the tails “hate” water (hydrophobic).

Front 2

Peripheral Protein

Back 2

These proteins attach to integral membrane proteins, or penetrate the peripheral regions of the lipid bilayer.

Front 3

Integral Protein

Back 3

Integral proteins are embedded within the lipid bilayer. They cannot easily be removed from the cell membrane without the use of harsh detergents that destroy the lipid bilayer.

Front 4

Glycoprotein

Back 4

Lipid and proteins on the cell membrane surface often have short carbohydrate chains protruding out from the cell surface, known as glycolipids and glycoproteins. They form hydrogen bonds with the water molecules surrounding the cell and thus help to stabilise membrane structure.

Front 5

Carbohydrate

Back 5

On the extracellular fluid side of a cell membrane, you find carbohydrates.

Front 6

Cholesterol

Back 6

Cholesterol molecules are scattered around in the lipid bilayer. Which help to keep the membrane fluid consistent.