Hydrophilic

Definition

Hydrophilic describes molecules or substances that are attracted to water and can form hydrogen bonds with water, allowing them to dissolve or absorb water easily. In the context of cell membranes, hydrophilic parts are oriented towards the aqueous external or internal environments.

Related terms

Phospholipid bilayer: A two-layered arrangement of phosphate and lipid molecules that forms a cell's membrane, featuring both hydrophilic (water-attracting) and hydrophobic (water-repelling) properties.

Polar molecule: A molecule with an uneven distribution of charge due to its shape or bond formation, resulting in regions with partial positive and negative charges, making it typically hydrophilic.

Protein channels: Proteins embedded in the cell membrane that allow specific ions or molecules to enter or exit the cell through their hydrophilic pathways