cell membrane

noun

plural cell membranes
: a membrane of a cell
especially : a semipermeable limiting layer of cell protoplasm consisting of a fluid phospholipid bilayer with intercalated proteins : plasma membrane
Despite being much maligned in the popular press, cholesterol plays a crucial role in organizing cell membranes and controlling their physical properties. Amanda Yarnell
… a cascade of reactions culminating in the transfer of a phosphate group to a protein complex that carries ions across the cell membrane. Science News

Examples of cell membrane in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web To overcome that problem, the researchers package the mRNA inside a bubble of lipids, which can then fuse with cell membranes, dumping the mRNA inside the cell. John Timmer, Ars Technica, 13 June 2024 Traditionally, causation has been assumed to flow from the bottom up: Our choices and actions, for example, are ultimately attributed to those firing patterns of our neurons, which in turn are caused by flows of ions across cell membranes. Quanta Magazine, 10 June 2024 They are made from human cell membranes plus a nanoparticle and are meant to be used in conjunction with antibiotics in critically ill patients, Field explained. Cecilia.butini, Vox, 4 June 2024 Furthermore, estrogen appears to have a stabilizing effect on cell membranes that might otherwise rupture from acute stress brought on by heat and exercise. Cara Ocobock, Scientific American, 1 Nov. 2023 See all Example Sentences for cell membrane 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'cell membrane.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1840, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of cell membrane was in 1840

Dictionary Entries Near cell membrane

Cite this Entry

“Cell membrane.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cell%20membrane. Accessed 7 Jul. 2024.

Kids Definition

cell membrane

noun
: a semipermeable outside layer surrounding the contents of a cell

Medical Definition

cell membrane

noun
: a membrane of a cell
especially : plasma membrane
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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