True or False: It is possible to transport proteins through simple diffusion.

In biological systems, simple diffusion refers to the passive movement of small, nonpolar molecules across a cell membrane without the need for energy or specialized transport proteins. Proteins, being larger and often polar or charged due to their amino acid composition, typically cannot pass through the hydrophobic core of the lipid bilayer of cell membranes by simple diffusion.

Proteins are usually transported across cell membranes via more complex mechanisms, such as facilitated diffusion or active transport, which involve specific transport proteins that help move these larger molecules. Facilitated diffusion allows certain proteins to cross the membrane down their concentration gradient, but it still requires specific channel or carrier proteins to assist in this process.

Understanding the nature of proteins and cellular membranes clarifies why simple diffusion is not a method by which proteins can be successfully transported. This highlights the unique requirements and mechanisms involved in cellular transport processes.