Structure and function in red cell permeability

It is postulated that facilitated diffusion through the cell plasma membrane takes place through a hydrogen-bonding stereochemically specific membrane component which extends through the thickness of the membrane. It was predicted that facilitated diffusion will be slowed by the presence of other hydrogen-bonding molecules, as a result of competition for hydrogen-bonding sites in the membrane component. This competitive inhibition is shown to be produced by ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, ethanol, butanol, urethane and phenol. Data are also presented for inhibition by copper, which acts as a non-competitive inhibitor.