A membrane protein that is loosely attached to the surface of the membrane or to integral proteins, rather than being embedded within the lipid bilayer. These proteins can be easily removed without disrupting the membrane structure.
From Greek 'periphereia' meaning 'circumference' or 'outer boundary', indicating these proteins are located at the periphery or edge of the membrane rather than within it. The classification became established in membrane biology during the 1970s.
Peripheral proteins are like temporary visitors to the membrane party! They can attach and detach as needed, often serving as enzymes or structural supports that can be recruited when the cell needs them, then released when their job is done.
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