What are two ways in which the extracellular and cytoplasmic

What are two ways in which the extracellular and cytoplasmic leaflets of the plasma membrane are different in composition from each other? What is one function that this asymmetry plays in the cell?

Solution

Please find the answers:

Part a: The two sides of plasma membrane are different in following ways:

Part b:The asymmetry of the plasma membrane on inner and outer side is very important for optimization of cellular functions and molecular singalling cascades. The composition of outer side promotes protection and communication with the extracellular region by the means of molecular signals. The presence of activation site and signal transduction sites on the inner side helps in translation of the activation molecular signals by proper execution by the cell with respect to any stress/stimulus.

Thus, the asymmetry helps in discrimination and functioanlization of the two parts of the cell, i.e. intracellular and extracellular regions.