LIFE SCIENCE

Detailed explanation-1: -As structural components of the plasma membrane, lipids are responsible for contributing to membrane tension, rigidity, and overall shape. After an injury, the biophysical properties of the plasma membrane, and the individual lipids themselves, are altered, eliciting changes to membrane rigidity and fluidity.

Detailed explanation-2: -The most abundant membrane lipids are the phospholipids. These have a polar head group and two hydrophobic hydrocarbon tails. The tails are usually fatty acids, and they can differ in length (they normally contain between 14 and 24 carbon atoms).

Detailed explanation-3: -In addition to the barrier function, lipids provide membranes with the potential for budding, tubulation, fission and fusion, characteristics that are essential for cell division, biological reproduction and intracellular membrane trafficking.

Detailed explanation-4: -Phospholipids allow for the passage of oxygen and carbon dioxide between the extracellular compartment and the intracellular compartment. Large protein molecules form channels, embedded in the phospholipid bilayer, allowing certain ions and molecules to pass through the membrane.