Cellular membranes and surface proteins

Cellular membranes and surface proteins represent a broad category of biological structures rather than a single molecular target. The plasma membrane consists of a phospholipid bilayer that provides a selective barrier, while surface proteins—including receptors, transporters, and ion channels—mediate communication and transport between the cell and its environment (Alberts et al., 2015). These components are vital for signal transduction and maintaining cellular homeostasis. In clinical medicine, surface proteins are the most frequent targets for drugs, particularly monoclonal antibodies and small molecules, due to their accessibility on the cell exterior (Santos et al., 2017). Pathological alterations in these proteins are central to many diseases, including cancer, where they may be overexpressed or mutated (Scott et al., 2012). Some specialized drugs, such as certain antibiotics and antifungals, target the lipid membrane itself to disrupt its integrity and cause cell death (Humphries et al., 2013).

Other names

Plasma membraneCell surface proteinsMembrane-bound proteinsCell surfaceomeCytoplasmic membrane

Mechanisms vary by specific component but include receptor antagonism or agonism, pore formation in the lipid bilayer, inhibition of membrane-bound enzymes, and antibody-mediated cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) (Santos et al., 2017; Scott et al., 2012).