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Cellular Gatekeeping

Meaning

Cellular Gatekeeping is the collective term for the biological mechanisms and structures that strictly control the passage of molecules, ions, and information into and out of a cell or its organelles. This includes the selective permeability of the plasma membrane, the function of specific membrane transporters, and the regulation of nuclear pore complexes. Effective gatekeeping is paramount for maintaining the cell’s internal environment, protecting its integrity, and ensuring that signaling pathways are activated only by appropriate stimuli. Disruptions in this selective control can lead to cellular dysfunction and pathology.