Membrane fluidity

Membrane fluidity refers to how flexible or viscous the cell membrane is. The membrane is made up of phospholipids arranged in a bilayer, with embedded proteins. The fluidity depends on factors like temperature and the types of fatty acids in the phospholipids; unsaturated fats make the membrane more fluid, while saturated fats make it more rigid. Cholesterol also helps regulate fluidity by preventing the membrane from becoming too stiff or too fluid. Proper membrane fluidity is essential for cell functions such as the movement of molecules in and out, communication with other cells, and maintaining structural integrity.