Module 6: Cell Biology

This module will describe both the structure and the function of the plasma membrane in our cells. This membrane serves as a selectively permeable barrier that separates the inside of our cells from the outside. The plasma membrane interacts with the aqueous environment on both sides of the membrane while keeping large quantities of water from rushing into our cells. In addition to this, our membrane closely regulates which substances are allowed to move into and out of our cells as we attempt to maintain homeostasis. This module will detail the numerous mechanisms our plasma membrane utilizes to accomplish this.

("MembraneTransport" by Alejandro Porto is used with a CC BY-SA 3.0 license.)

1. Describe the structure of the plasma membrane and explain how this structure contributes to the membrane’s function. (CLO #1 and #2)
2. Compare and contrast active transport and passive transport and explain how each process is crucial for cellular function. (CLO #1 and #3)
3. Provide examples of passive and active transport within the body and illustrate the importance of these processes. (CLO #3)
4. Apply your knowledge of membrane transport to common medical conditions in which this process has been compromised. (CLO #3 and #4)

To achieve these objectives:

1. Read the Module 6 Introduction. (C.L.O. #1, C.L.O. #3, and C.L.O. #4)
   
2. Read Chapter 7 in the textbook. (C.L.O. #1, C.L.O. #3, and C.L.O. #4)
3. Test Your Knowledge sections are located at the end of each segment in the chapter. Answering the questions in these sections will aid in your knowledge to help you with the course. These questions will be relevant for information on testing and quizzes. (C.L.O. #1, C.L.O. #3, and #4)(M.L.O. # 1, M.L.O #2, M.L.O. #3, M.L.O. #4)
4. Complete the exercises in the "Practice" section at the end of the chapter. (C.L.O. #1, C.L.O. #3, and C.L.O. #4)(M.L.O. #1, M.L.O. #2, M.L.O. #3, M.L.O #4)
   
5. Complete the discussion activity. (C.L.O. #3 and C.L.O. #4)(M.L.O. #1)
6. Complete the case study exercise. (C.L.O. #4)(M.L.O. #2, M.L.O. #3, M.L.O. #4)
7. Complete the quiz. (C.L.O. #1, C.L.O. #3, and C.L.O. #4)(M.L.O. #1, M.L.O. #2, M.L.O. #3, M.L.O. #4)

Module Pressbooks Resources and Activities