Functions of cell membrane

Cell membrane which is referred to as a ‘Living layer’ of the cell is important mainly due to the nature of
its selective permeability. Although this membrane has little mechanical strength to support the cell, it
plays a crucial role in:

 Protects the cell by acting as a Protective Barrier.

 Regulates the transport of substances in and out of the cell. (Selectively Permeable)
 Receives chemical messengers from other cell.
 Acts as a receptor.
 Cell mobility, secretions, and absorptions of substances.
 Keeps a cell intact.
 Small lipid – soluble molecules, e.g. Oxygen and Carbon dioxide can pass easily.
 Water can freely cross the membrane.
 Ions and large molecules cannot cross without assistance.
 Allow cell recognition.
 Provide anchoring sites for filaments of cytoskeleton.
 Provide a binding site for enzymes.
 Interlocking surfaces bind cells together (Junctions)
 Contains the cytoplasm (Fluid in Cell)