Biology Proteins in Plasma Membrane

[Swerting]

Homework Statement

Describe the methods by which proteins are clustered in the plasma membrane.

Homework Equations

There are none really; it's theory.

The Attempt at a Solution

I understand that the proteins bond with the cytoskeleton (actin microfillaments and intermediate fillaments), but I can't seem to think of the second method. I do know that it is not that the proteins in the plasma membrane bond with the extracellular matrix. Perhaps it has something to do with the proteins bonding together? Such as polypeptides forming disulfide bridges, hydrogen bonds, or the like? Any insight would be greatly appreciated.

 

[Ygggdrasil]

Yes, interactions between membrane proteins is another way in which you can cluster proteins at the plasma membrane. Another topic to look into (although somewhat controversial in the field) is the concept of lipid rafts or lipid microdomains.