Implications of Two Different Types of Diffusion for Biological Membranes

AS it is not widely appreciated that diffusion within complex media can be strikingly and often qualitatively different from that in simple liquids such as water, there is confusion concerning transport processes across biological membranes^1,2. We would like to draw attention to some fundamental differences between the diffusion process in simple liquids and that in more complex media-non-porous networks of hydrophobic polymers and biological membranes.     

Labyrinthula

SYNOPSIS. The bionomics of Labyrinthula Cienkowski and the validity of the family Labyrinthulidae Haeckel are reviewed. The structure, physiology (including nutrition), locomotion, ecology, and possible pathogenicity for eel-grass ( Zostera marina L.) are discussed. The uniqueness of its gliding motility along slime tracks, lack of phagotrophy, and poorly understood congregation tendencies emphasize the present taxonomic isolation of the group. Further interest attaches to some species because of their steroid requirements.