The lipid barrier serves several critical functions:
1. Selective Permeability: It controls the entry and exit of ions, nutrients, and waste products, thus maintaining cellular homeostasis. 2. Protection: It acts as a protective barrier against mechanical damage and pathogens. 3. Signal Transduction: Membrane proteins within the lipid barrier play essential roles in cell signaling processes. 4. Cell Communication: It facilitates communication between cells through receptor proteins and other signaling mechanisms.
