Cell membranes are asymmetrical. Which of the following is the most likely explanation?
A) The cell membrane forms a border between one cell and another in tightly packed tissues such as epithelium.
B) Cell membranes communicate signals from one organism to another.
C) The two sides of a cell membrane face different environments and carry out different functions.
D) The "innerness" and "outerness" of membrane surfaces are predetermined by genes.
E) Proteins can only be associated with the cell membranes on the cytoplasmic side.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The asymmetry of cell membranes is due to the different environments and functions of the two sides of the membrane. For example, the cytoplasmic side of the membrane interacts with the cytoskeleton and regulates intracellular signaling, while the extracellular side interacts with the extracellular matrix and mediates cell-cell communication.

Cell Membranes Are Asymmetrical