Chapter 1 – Introduction to Biological Membranes

The American Heritage Dictionary defines a membrane as “A thin pliable layer of plant or animal tissue covering or separating structures or organs.” The impression this description leaves is static―like plastic wrap covering a package of hamburger. By this definition, membranes are tough, impenetrable, and visible. Nothing can be further from the truth. The entire concept of dynamic behavior is missing from this definition, yet dynamics is what makes membranes both essential for life and so difficult to study. Dynamic is characterized by “constant change, activity, or progress.”