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Cellular Membrane Fluidity

Meaning

Cellular membrane fluidity is a biophysical property that describes the degree of viscosity within the lipid bilayer of the cell membrane, which dictates the lateral mobility of embedded lipids and proteins. This characteristic is a fundamental determinant of cell function, profoundly influencing vital processes such as signal transduction, cellular recognition, and the transport of molecules. Maintaining an optimal level of fluidity is essential for cellular homeostasis and efficient hormonal responsiveness across all tissues.