Transport Mechanism

1. Facilitated Diffusion:

Facilitated diffusion is a passive transport mechanism that involves the

movement of molecules across a cell membrane with the help of specific
transport proteins. These proteins provide a pathway for molecules to move
down their concentration gradient (from high to low concentration) without
expending energy. Facilitated diffusion is used for molecules that are too large or
hydrophilic to pass through the lipid bilayer directly, such as glucose and certain
ions.

1. Primary Active Transport:

Primary active transport involves the
direct use of energy (usually derived from ATP) to pump ions or molecules
across a cell membrane against their concentration gradient. This transport
requires specific protein pumps, such as the sodium-potassium pump (Na+/K+
pump), which actively transports sodium ions out of the cell and potassium ions
into the cell. The energy from ATP is used to change the conformation of the
pump and move ions against their concentration gradients.

2. Secondary Active Co-transport:

Secondary active co-transport (also known as symport or cotransport) involves
the movement of two or more solutes across a cell membrane, with one solute
moving down its concentration gradient (typically sodium) and providing the
energy needed to transport the second solute against its concentration gradient.
An example is the sodium-glucose cotransporter (SGLT) in the intestine and
kidney tubules, which couples the movement of sodium ions and glucose.

3. Secondary Active Counter-transport:

Secondary active counter-transport (also known as antiport or exchange
transport) involves the simultaneous movement of two ions or molecules in
opposite directions across a cell membrane. One solute moves into the cell while
the other moves out. The energy required for this exchange is obtained from the
concentration gradient of one of the solutes. An example is the sodium-calcium
exchanger (NCX) in cardiac muscle cells, where sodium influx is exchanged for
calcium efflux.

Transport Mechanism 1
 4. Simple Diffusion:
Simple diffusion is a passive transport process that involves the movement of
molecules directly through the lipid bilayer of a cell membrane. This movement
occurs down the concentration gradient and doesn't require the assistance of
membrane proteins. Small non-polar molecules, such as oxygen and carbon
dioxide, can pass through the lipid bilayer via simple diffusion.

Transport Mechanism 2