How do proteins act as carrier proteins?

Explanation

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Carrier Proteins**: Carrier proteins are specialized proteins located in the cell membrane that facilitate the transport of specific substances across the membrane. They are essential for moving molecules that cannot freely diffuse through the lipid bilayer.

2. **Binding Site**: Each carrier protein has a specific binding site that recognizes and binds to a particular solute (such as glucose or ions). This specificity ensures that only certain molecules are transported.

3. **Conformational Change**: When a solute binds to the carrier protein, it induces a conformational change in the protein's structure. This change alters the shape of the protein, allowing it to transport the bound solute across the membrane.

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