What is the Difference Between Symport and Antiport?

The difference between symport and antiport lies in the direction in which the molecules are transported across the cell membrane. Both symport and antiport involve the transport of two different molecules through a protein channel, but they move in different directions:

• Symport: In symport, two molecules or ions are transported in the same direction across the membrane. This process is also known as co-transport. An example of a symporter is the sodium-glucose transporter, which moves glucose and sodium ions into a cell simultaneously.
• Antiport: In antiport, two molecules or ions are transported in opposite directions across the membrane. This process involves an exchange of molecules between the inside and outside of the cell. An example of an antiport is the sodium-calcium pump, which moves sodium ions into the cell and calcium ions out of the cell.

In summary:

• Symport: Two molecules move in the same direction across the membrane.
• Antiport: Two molecules move in opposite directions across the membrane.

Comparative Table: Symport vs Antiport

The main difference between symport and antiport lies in the direction in which molecules or ions are transported across the membrane. Here is a comparison table highlighting the differences between symport and antiport:

Both symport and antiport are transmembrane protein systems that facilitate the transport of molecules across the membrane. In symport, two molecules move in the same direction, while in antiport, two molecules move in opposite directions.