What is the function of proteins embedded in the cell membrane?

Proteins embedded in the cell membrane play a crucial role in various cellular functions, particularly in transport and cell communication. They act as channels or transporters that help move substances across the membrane, facilitating the import of nutrients and the export of waste products. For example, some membrane proteins are integral to creating pores that allow ions and small molecules to pass through, which is essential for maintaining the cell’s environment and responding to changes.

In addition to transport, embedded proteins are vital for cell communication. Receptor proteins specifically can bind to signaling molecules (like hormones) and trigger a response within the cell, making them essential for processes such as growth, immune responses, and cellular signaling pathways. This dual functionality of transport and communication emphasizes the importance of membrane proteins in maintaining the overall life and activity of the cell.

The other choices do not fully encapsulate the primary roles of membrane proteins. While structural support is important in cell membranes, it is primarily provided by other components such as the lipid bilayer and cytoskeleton. Storing genetic information is the role of DNA within the nucleus, and synthesizing proteins occurs in the ribosomes, not within the membrane itself. Thus, the role of proteins embedded in the cell membrane is best characterized by their functions in transport