The Relevance of Cell Membranes for P Systems. General Aspects

Abstract

This paper presents the stucture, organization (hierarchy) and function of cell membrane in bacteria, with special emphasis on: i) the hierarchy of cell membranes in Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria, ii) two main criteria for the classification of transport of ions and molecules across cell membrane, iii) two important mechanisms of transport – symport and antiport, and iv) the relevance of these biological realities for working concepts in P systems such as membrane hierarchy and developmental rules. The biological reality not only illustrates some central concepts in P systems but also could give some suggestions for the theoretical development of P systems and their possible implementation.