Textbook Question
Hydrocortisone is an anti-inflammatory drug that stabilizes lysosomal membranes. Explain how this effect reduces cell damage and inflammation.
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Ch. 3 Cells and Tissues
Marieb13th EditionEssentials of Human Anatomy & PhysiologyISBN: 9780135624340
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Table of contents
- Ch. 1 The Human Body: An Orientation23
- Ch. 2 Basic Chemistry22
- Ch. 3 Cells and Tissues20
- Ch. 4 Skin and Body Membranes13
- Ch. 5 The Skeletal System38
- Ch. 6 The Muscular System26
- Ch. 7 The Nervous System26
- Ch. 8 Special Senses12
- Ch. 9 The Endocrine System24
- Ch. 10 Blood22
- Ch. 11 Cardiovascular System29
- Ch. 12 The Lymphatic System and Body Defenses21
- Ch. 13 The Respiratory System7
- Ch. 14 The Digestive System and Body Metabolism13
- Ch. 15 The Urinary System23
- Ch. 16 The Reproductive System15
Marieb13th EditionEssentials of Human Anatomy & PhysiologyISBN: 9780135624340Not the one you use?Change textbook
Chapter 3, Problem 23
Think carefully about the chemistry of the plasma membrane, and then answer this question: Why is minor damage to the membrane usually not a problem?
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Understand the structure of the plasma membrane: The plasma membrane is primarily composed of a phospholipid bilayer, along with embedded proteins, cholesterol, and carbohydrates. The phospholipid bilayer is fluid and dynamic, allowing for flexibility and self-repair.
Recognize the fluid mosaic model: The plasma membrane is described by the fluid mosaic model, which highlights its ability to move and rearrange components. This fluidity allows the membrane to adapt to minor disruptions without losing its integrity.
Consider the role of hydrophobic interactions: The phospholipids in the bilayer are held together by hydrophobic interactions between their fatty acid tails. These interactions are strong enough to maintain the membrane's structure but flexible enough to allow for self-sealing when minor damage occurs.
Understand the self-repair mechanism: When minor damage occurs, the phospholipids can rearrange themselves to fill gaps or seal small tears. This is due to the natural tendency of hydrophobic molecules to avoid water and reassemble into a bilayer structure.
Evaluate the role of embedded proteins and cholesterol: Proteins and cholesterol within the membrane contribute to its stability and flexibility. Cholesterol helps prevent the membrane from becoming too rigid or too fluid, while proteins can assist in maintaining the membrane's function even after minor damage.
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Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Fluid Mosaic Model
The fluid mosaic model describes the structure of the plasma membrane as a dynamic and flexible layer composed of a phospholipid bilayer with embedded proteins. This model emphasizes that the lipids and proteins can move laterally within the layer, allowing for self-healing properties. When minor damage occurs, the fluid nature of the membrane enables it to quickly reseal, maintaining its integrity and functionality.
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Phospholipid Bilayer
The phospholipid bilayer is the fundamental structure of the plasma membrane, consisting of two layers of phospholipids with hydrophilic heads facing outward and hydrophobic tails facing inward. This arrangement creates a semi-permeable barrier that regulates the movement of substances in and out of the cell. Minor damage to the membrane can often be repaired as the phospholipids can rearrange and fill in gaps, restoring the barrier.
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Membrane Repair Mechanisms
Cells possess various membrane repair mechanisms that are activated in response to damage. These include the recruitment of specific proteins that facilitate the resealing of the membrane and the use of vesicles to patch up holes. Such mechanisms are crucial for maintaining cellular homeostasis and preventing the loss of essential cellular components, allowing cells to survive minor membrane injuries.
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