Membrane fluidity refers to the viscosity of the lipid bilayer in a cell membrane, which affects how freely lipids and proteins can move within that layer. This property is crucial for maintaining the functionality of membrane proteins, influencing processes such as cell signaling, transport, and the overall structural integrity of the membrane. The degree of fluidity can be affected by temperature, the types of fatty acids present, and the presence of cholesterol, all of which play roles in how well the membrane can adapt to different cellular conditions.
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