Question

Concept check - do you know the difference between membrane transport, exocytosis and endocytosis? What uses channels to get across the plasma membrane? . What uses transporters to get across the plasma membrane? • What uses exocytosis to get across the plasma membrane • What uses endocytosis to get across the plasma membrane?

Answer 1

What uses channels to get across the plasma membrane

In this case, the channels are mainly protein channels that allows the passage of determined molecules or ions through the membrane by diffusion. Generally, the molecules will pass through the channel down their concentration gradient, from the most concentrated side to the less concentrated side.

What uses transporters to get across the plasma membrane

On the other hand, the protein transporters will transport charged or polar substances through the membrane. Some of these transporters requires ATP (active transport). Other does not requires ATP (passive transport)

What uses exocytosis to get across the plasma membrane?

Proteins, toxins or waste molecules uses the mechanism of exocytosis in order to be released to the extracellular environment. These molecules are enclosed by a transport vesicle that will fuse with the cell membrane in order to release the material

What uses endocytosis to get across the plasma membrane

Finally, the process of endocytosis involves the uptake of extracellular material to the inside of the cell. The extracellular material is enclosed in a vesicle. This extracellular material can be nutrients or pathogens that will be degraded.