Membrane Transport

Definition

Membrane transport refers to the collection of mechanisms that regulate the passage of solutes such as ions and small molecules through biological membranes, which are lipid bilayers that contain proteins embedded in them.

Related terms

Active Transport:

This is like the VIP pass scenario. It's when molecules move across a cell membrane from an area of lower concentration to an area of higher concentration with the help of energy input and specific transport proteins.

Endocytosis:

This is when the club expands its walls to let in large groups all at once. In biology, it's when cells form vesicles around foreign matter or large molecules to bring them into the cell.

Exocytosis:

This is like when the club ejects unruly patrons by pushing them out through their doors. Cells use this process to expel waste materials or secrete substances contained within vesicles out into their environment.