Question

Explain why one cell would have so many different kinds of proteins embedded in the cell membrane

Answer 1

Answer:

Each type of cell has, in its cell membrane, specific proteins that help it control the intracellular environment and that interact with specific signals from its environment.

Explanation:

Some proteins are completely integrated into the membrane and are called membrane proteins or integral transmembrane proteins since they "cover" both layers of the membrane. Transmembrane proteins are useful to the cell because they can interact with molecules outside the cell and send information about the extracellular environment into the cell. Other proteins are more loosely bound to the inside or outside of the membrane and are called peripheral membrane proteins. Peripheral membrane proteins are often used by the cell during signal transduction - the process by which one cell responds to a signal from another cell.

Answer 2

Answer:

membrane proteins play different roles (for example, transport of nutrients, signaling pathways, etc)

Explanation:

Membrane proteins are key components that form and interact with biological membranes. Thus, membrane proteins can be classified as 1-integral membrane proteins which are components of the cell membrane and 2-transmembrane proteins that penetrate the membrane in one or both sides of the membrane.  These proteins account for different cellular functions. Some functions of membrane proteins include:

- Cell structure (attachment to the extracellular matrix and/or the  cytoskeleton)

- Transport of nutrients and waste products  

- Intercellular interaction between cells.  

- Signaling transduction functions

- Cell recognition (e.g., during innate immune responses)