BRAC UNIVERSITY

INTRODUCTION TO BIOCHEMISTRY(BCH101)

Assignment 01
“What are the functions of carbohydrates in the phospholipid
bilayer”

Submitted by
Eusha Mashiat
24126130
Section 11

Submitted to
Aksa Hossain Nizhum
Lecturer, BRAC University
 Functions of carbohydrates in the phospholipid bilayer

An essential structural element of cellular membranes is the phospholipid bilayer, which

encloses the contents of cells and organelles in a selectively permeable barrier. Carbohydrates
are essential to the structure and function of this bilayer, even though phospholipids provide
its main framework. On the extracellular side of the phospholipid bilayer, carbohydrates are
frequently linked to proteins or lipids to create glycoproteins or glycolipids, respectively.
These carbohydrate moieties perform a variety of tasks, including as stabilizing and
protecting the cell membrane and facilitating cell recognition and communication.

Fig 01: Phospholipid Bilayer [khan Academy]

Carbohydrates on the phospholipid bilayer:

The phospholipid bilayer itself does not structurally incorporate carbohydrates. Nonetheless,
they can interact with the phospholipid bilayer indirectly through the molecules known as
glycolipids and glycoproteins called glycocalyx, which are linked to carbohydrate chains.
The lipid bilayer encases these molecules, with the carbohydrate parts protruding into the
extracellular milieu.
Fig 02: Carbohydrate chain [google]

Carbohydrate chains:

Glycolipid:

Typically, chains of carbohydrates are found attached to lipids in phospholipid bilayers,

where they create glycolipids. These chains of carbohydrates protrude from the membrane's
outside and confront the extracellular milieu. Various cell types and species have various
unique carbohydrate chain compositions and structures. Glycolipids contribute to membrane
stability, cell-cell interactions and cell signaling processes.
 Fig 03: Glycolipids [google]

Glycoprotein:

Glycoproteins are proteins that have carbohydrate chains (glycans) covalently attached to
them. These carbohydrate chains are typically attached to specific amino acid residues within
the protein structure, forming glycosidic bonds. Glycoproteins serves as receptors for
hormones and molecules and ensure communication and adhesion of cells.

Fig 04: Glycoprotein [google]

Functions of carbohydrates in the phospholipid bilayer:

 Cell-cell recognition and communication: Carbohydrates in the phospholipid

bilayer play a major role in cell identification and communication. In cell-to-cell
adhesion and recognition, glycolipids and glycoproteins that are found on the cell
surface bearing carbohydrate chains are essential components. As molecular
identifiers, these carbohydrate moieties let cells recognize self from non-self and
support several physiological functions, including immunological responses, tissue
growth, and synaptic communication.
 Protection and lubrication: The phospholipid bilayer's carbohydrates also aid in
lubricating and shielding the cell membrane. A hydrated layer that forms on the cell
surface as a result of the carbohydrate chains extending from glycolipids acts as a
barrier against both chemical and physical harm. Additionally, by decreasing friction
between neighboring cells and the surrounding structures, this hydrated layer
promotes easy movement and cellular functions including motility and secretion.
 Stability and Rigidity: Carbohydrates are essential for maintaining the integrity and
rigidity of the phospholipid bilayer, as well as for cell recognition and protection.
Adjacent glycoproteins and glycolipids interact with one another through
carbohydrates to form molecular networks that support the structural integrity of the
cell membrane. The phospholipid bilayer's durability against mechanical stress and
deformation is strengthened by these carbohydrate-mediated connections, which
maintain cell stability across a range of physiological circumstances.

To conclude, carbohydrates provide a variety of important activities in the phospholipid

bilayer, including cell identification, protection, lubrication, membrane stability, and
stiffness. Carbohydrates regulate a variety of physiological and pathological phenomena
by facilitating cell-cell contact, adhesion, and signaling processes via molecular
interactions with proteins and lipids. Experimental research and technological
breakthroughs have provided vital insights into the roles of carbohydrates in the
phospholipid bilayer, opening up possibilities for therapeutic interventions and
biotechnological innovations. More study is needed to completely understand the
complicated molecular pathways driving carbohydrate-mediated activities in cellular
membranes.

References:

 Nelson, D. L., & Cox, M. M. (2008). Lehninger Principles of Biochemistry and

IClicker. W H Freeman & Company.
 Satyanarayana, U. (2021). Biochemistry, 6e-E-book: Biochemistry, 6e-E-book.
Elsevier Health Sciences.
  Jyoti, A. (2023, September 25). What are glycolipids? Types, properties, and
functions. Science Query.

https://sciencequery.com/what-are-glycolipids-types-properties-and-functions/

 Candy, D. J. (1980). Biological functions of carbohydrates. John Wiley & Sons.

 Libretexts. (2022, July 31). 4.5: Structure and function of carbohydrates. Biology
LibreTexts.
https://bio.libretexts.org/Courses/Lumen_Learning/Biology_for_Non_Majors_I_(Lum
en)/04%3A_Important_Biological_Macromolecules/
4.05%3A_Structure_and_Function_of_Carbohydrates