Is the statement "The most important job of the cell (plasma) membrane is protection" True or False?

The cell membrane, or plasma membrane, plays several crucial roles in maintaining the integrity and functionality of the cell, but stating that its most important job is protection is an oversimplification. The primary functions of the plasma membrane include regulating the movement of substances in and out of the cell, facilitating communication and signaling, and maintaining homeostasis. While it does provide a boundary that protects the contents of the cell from the external environment, the dynamic nature of the membrane, such as its selectively permeable qualities, is more critical for the cell’s survival and function.

Moreover, the membrane is involved in a variety of processes such as nutrient uptake, waste removal, signal transduction, and cell recognition, which are essential for the cell's interaction with its environment. Protection, though important, is only one of many critical functions, thus supporting the idea that the statement is false. The emphasis on other vital roles makes it clear that protection is not the singular most important function of the plasma membrane.