Table of contents

1. Overview of Cell Biology2h 49m
2. Chemical Components of Cells1h 14m
3. Energy1h 33m
4. DNA, Chromosomes, and Genomes2h 31m
5. DNA to RNA to Protein2h 31m
6. Proteins1h 36m
7. Gene Expression1h 42m
8. Membrane Structure1h 4m
- The Lipid Bilayer
  38m
- Membrane Proteins
  25m
9. Transport Across Membranes1h 52m
10. Anerobic Respiration1h 5m
11. Aerobic Respiration1h 11m
12. Photosynthesis52m
13. Intracellular Protein Transport2h 18m
14. Cell Signaling1h 28m
15. Cytoskeleton and Cell Movement1h 39m
16. Cell Division3h 5m
17. Meiosis and Sexual Reproduction50m
18. Cell Junctions and Tissues48m
19. Stem Cells13m
- Stem Cells
  13m
20. Cancer44m
21. The Immune System1h 6m
22. Techniques in Cell Biology1h 41m

8. Membrane Structure

Membrane Proteins

Cell Biology

8. Membrane Structure

Membrane Proteins

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Multiple Choice

Which part of a membrane protein is typically found in contact with the interior of the lipid bilayer?

Phosphate groups

Carbohydrate side chains

Hydrophobic regions

Hydrophilic regions

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Verified step by step guidance

Understand the structure of the lipid bilayer: The lipid bilayer is composed of amphipathic molecules, meaning they have both hydrophilic (water-attracting) and hydrophobic (water-repelling) regions. The interior of the bilayer is hydrophobic, formed by the fatty acid tails of phospholipids.

Recognize the nature of membrane proteins: Membrane proteins are also amphipathic. They have hydrophilic regions that interact with the aqueous environment and hydrophobic regions that interact with the lipid bilayer's interior.

Identify the regions of the membrane protein: The hydrophobic regions of the protein are typically composed of nonpolar amino acids. These regions are embedded within the hydrophobic core of the lipid bilayer to maintain stability and proper orientation.

Eliminate incorrect options: Phosphate groups and carbohydrate side chains are hydrophilic and are found on the exterior of the bilayer, interacting with the aqueous environment. Hydrophilic regions of the protein are also exposed to the aqueous environment, not the bilayer's interior.

Conclude the correct answer: The hydrophobic regions of a membrane protein are in contact with the hydrophobic interior of the lipid bilayer, ensuring proper integration and function of the protein within the membrane.