Membrane Proteins

Proteins that are bound to the polar head groups of lipids

Fundamentals:

• Can be influenced chemically
  • Disrupted by adding salts
  • Changing the pH of the membrane

Types:

• Prostaglandin H2 Synthase 1

Function/Purpose

• Converts arachodonic acid to prostaglandin H2
  • Prostagalnding promotes inflammation and modulates gastric acid secretion
  • Arachodonic acid is created by the hydrolysis of membrane lipids

Mechanism

• Arachodonic acid moves inside the hydrophilic core of the plasma membrane
  • Between the polar heads
• Active site is inside the plasma membrane

Clinical Applications:

• Asprin and Ibuprofen block the channel and prevent the prostaglandin synthesis
  • Reducing the inflammatory response
    • HOW? Asprin donates a acetyl group to a serine residue to block the channel

Additional Information: