Transporters

Definition

Transporters are proteins embedded in the plasma membrane that facilitate the movement of substances across the membrane. They can operate via passive or active transport mechanisms to maintain cellular homeostasis.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Transporters can be categorized into uniporters, symporters, and antiporters based on their function.
2. Active transporters require energy, usually in the form of ATP, to move substances against their concentration gradient.
3. The sodium-potassium pump is a prime example of an active transporter that maintains cellular ion balance.
4. Transporter proteins have specific binding sites for the molecules they transport, ensuring selectivity.
5. Mutations in transporter genes can lead to various diseases due to disrupted cellular transport mechanisms.

Review Questions

• What is the primary difference between passive and active transport involving transporters?
• Name and describe one key example of an active transporter and its function in cells.
• How do transporter proteins ensure specificity for the molecules they move?

Related terms

Passive Transport:

The movement of substances across a cell membrane without the need for energy input.

Concentration Gradient: A difference in the concentration of a substance across a space or a membrane.

ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate): The primary molecule used by cells to store and transfer energy.