Active Transport Protein

Although not actual size, this active transport model is the perfect tool for teachers to demonstrate to students how molecules are moved against their concentration gradients through a membrane and into a cell. This product represents the process of an active transport protein transporting molecules from their low concentration to their high concentration.

When a cell needs to maintain a high concentration of one substance and/or a low concentration of another, these substances must be moved against their concentration gradients(their natural flow). This means normal diffusion through a membrane will not work and an active transport protein is needed. This special protein binds to a specific substance, closes the opening on one side of the membrane, and creates an opening on the other side. In order for the protein to change its shape, exergonic energy from the breaking down of adenosine triphosphate into adenosine diphosphate and a single phosphate is needed. This whole process i