Final answer:
The cell membrane directly controls the movement of substances in and out of the cell and plays a role in cell adhesion, signaling, and attachment surface for the cytoskeleton.
Step-by-step explanation:
The functions directly controlled by the cell membrane include:
- Regulating the movement of substances in and out of the cell
- Cell adhesion and signaling
- Attachment surface for the cytoskeleton
The cell membrane is selectively permeable to ions and organic molecules, allowing it to control which substances can enter or exit the cell. It also carries markers that allow cells to recognize one another, which is important for tissue and organ formation and immune responses.