Of the following functions, which is most important for the glycoproteins and glycolipids of animal cell membranes?
A)facilitated diffusion of molecules down their concentration gradients
B)active transport of molecules against their concentration gradients
C)maintaining the integrity of a fluid mosaic membrane
D)maintaining membrane fluidity at low temperatures
E)a cell's ability to distinguish one type of neighboring cell from another

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Glycoproteins and glycolipids play a crucial role in cell recognition and adhesion, allowing a cell to distinguish one type of neighboring cell from another. This is particularly important in the immune system, where the body needs to be able to distinguish between "self" and "non-self" cells. Although the other functions listed (such as facilitated diffusion and membrane fluidity) are also important for cell function, they are not as directly related to the function of glycoproteins and glycolipids.

Of the Following Functions, Which Is Most Important for the Glycoproteins