Cell membranes are composed of lipids and proteins. The outer limiting membrane, or plasma membrane, houses a complex system of internal membranes, which compartmentalize a cell. Cell membranes, for all intents and purposes, keep molecules together.

The plasma membrane serves as an interface between outside elements and the internal working of the cell. In the case of cells that make up the immune system, the cell membranes can come into contact with antigens and pass along the information. This is how immune responses are determined.

Cell Membranes and Cholesterol

Cholesterol and its derivatives are actually important parts of cell membranes. This is extremely important from a health perspective. Elevated cholesterol affects a great number of people in the United States. This has long been a major concern of doctors and nutritionists, prompting various ad campaigns and warnings. It has become an even hotter topic now that the most popular diet in the country can involve eating foods that are high in cholesterol. If levels are elevated or abnormal, cell membranes can be affected, causing a slew of problems apart from the clogged arteries that often occur.

Certain supplements, particularly oat beta glucan, can do a lot to blood cholesterol. Other supplements can enhance the immune system. These are not a guarantee against high levels, but they can improve cells' response time, which can help a person stay healthier, and in turn, can often keep cholesterol levels in check.