The physical chemistry of cytoplasm and its influence on cell function: an update

Mol Biol Cell. 2013 Sep;24(17):2593-6. doi: 10.1091/mbc.E12-08-0617.

Abstract

From the point of view of intermolecular interactions, the cytoplasmic space is more like a crowded party in a house full of furniture than a game of tag in an empty field. Understanding the physical chemical properties of cytoplasm is thus of key importance for understanding cellular function. This article attempts to provide an entrée into the current literature on this subject and offers some general guidelines for thinking about intracellular biochemistry.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Cell Physiological Phenomena*
  • Cell Size
  • Chemical Phenomena
  • Cytoplasm / chemistry*
  • Cytoplasm / physiology
  • Diffusion
  • Macromolecular Substances / chemistry
  • Signal Transduction

Substances

  • Macromolecular Substances