cell membrane

noun

plural cell membranes
: a membrane of a cell
especially : a semipermeable limiting layer of cell protoplasm consisting of a fluid phospholipid bilayer with intercalated proteins : plasma membrane
Despite being much maligned in the popular press, cholesterol plays a crucial role in organizing cell membranes and controlling their physical properties. Amanda Yarnell
… a cascade of reactions culminating in the transfer of a phosphate group to a protein complex that carries ions across the cell membrane. Science News

Examples of cell membrane in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Potentially helpful supplements for insulin resistance include the following: Omega-3 Fatty Acids EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid), DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), and ALA (alpha-linolenic acid) can help reduce inflammation and support cell membrane health, facilitating better insulin signaling. Danielle Weiss, Verywell Health, 12 Aug. 2024 Now, researchers have discovered why: The cell membranes of these jellies depend on extreme pressures to function and retain their delicate shape. science.org, 3 July 2024 Instead, the authors of the new study reasoned the phenomenon hinges on their cell membranes, which are made largely of lipids—fatty, compressible molecules easily deformed by changes in pressure. science.org, 3 July 2024 To overcome that problem, the researchers package the mRNA inside a bubble of lipids, which can then fuse with cell membranes, dumping the mRNA inside the cell. John Timmer, Ars Technica, 13 June 2024 See all Example Sentences for cell membrane 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'cell membrane.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1840, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of cell membrane was in 1840

Dictionary Entries Near cell membrane

Cite this Entry

“Cell membrane.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cell%20membrane. Accessed 9 Sep. 2024.

Kids Definition

cell membrane

noun
: a semipermeable outside layer surrounding the contents of a cell

Medical Definition

cell membrane

noun
: a membrane of a cell
especially : plasma membrane
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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