M9

M9. Molecular recognition is an important property for life processes.

 

Student Outcome: M9.1

Explain how cell membrane receptors allow cells to recognise and select molecules necessary for cell activities.

 

Source: http://fig.cox.miami.edu/~cmallery/255/255hist/mcb1.16.receptors.jpg

 

Go here to see a very good video showing how an antibody links up to a bacterium's antigen.

 

I might even be able to embed a similar video below. Let's see...

 

Nope!

 

Here is another video about the binding of an immunity protein with a protein in the cell membrane. Watch the cell membrane protein change shape as it binds. Remind you of something?