1Which type of transport moves molecules across a membrane against their concentration gradient and requires energy?
Molecular mechanisms of membrane transport
Easy
A.Osmosis
B.Simple diffusion
C.Facilitated diffusion
D.Active transport
Correct Answer: Active transport
Explanation:
Active transport moves substances against their concentration gradient using energy, usually from ATP. The other processes are passive and require no energy input.
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2The pump transports which ions in each cycle?
Molecular mechanisms of membrane transport
Easy
A.2 out and 3 in
B.3 out and 2 in
C.3 out and 2 in
D.2 out and 2 in
Correct Answer: 3 out and 2 in
Explanation:
The -ATPase pumps 3 sodium ions out of the cell and 2 potassium ions into the cell per ATP hydrolyzed.
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3Which molecule can most easily cross a lipid bilayer by simple diffusion?
Molecular mechanisms of membrane transport
Easy
A.
B.
C.
D.Glucose
Correct Answer:
Explanation:
Small nonpolar molecules like pass freely through the hydrophobic core of the membrane, while ions and polar molecules require transport proteins.
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4A channel protein that allows only water molecules to pass across the membrane is called a(n):
Molecular mechanisms of membrane transport
Easy
A.ATPase
B.Symporter
C.Aquaporin
D.Antiporter
Correct Answer: Aquaporin
Explanation:
Aquaporins are membrane channel proteins that selectively facilitate the rapid movement of water across the plasma membrane.
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5A transporter that moves two different molecules in opposite directions across a membrane is called a(n):
Molecular mechanisms of membrane transport
Easy
A.Symporter
B.Antiporter
C.Uniporter
D.Ionophore
Correct Answer: Antiporter
Explanation:
An antiporter carries two molecules in opposite directions, whereas a symporter moves them in the same direction and a uniporter moves a single type of molecule.
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6Molecules move between the nucleus and cytoplasm through which structure?
Nuclear transport
Easy
A.Ribosome
B.Nucleolus
C.Nuclear pore complex
D.Centriole
Correct Answer: Nuclear pore complex
Explanation:
The nuclear pore complex spans the nuclear envelope and regulates the transport of molecules between the nucleus and cytoplasm.
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7A short amino acid sequence that directs a protein into the nucleus is called a:
Nuclear transport
Easy
A.Nuclear localization signal (NLS)
B.Signal peptide
C.TATA box
D.Poly-A tail
Correct Answer: Nuclear localization signal (NLS)
Explanation:
The nuclear localization signal (NLS) is recognized by import receptors and targets proteins for entry into the nucleus.
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8Which small GTPase provides directionality to nuclear transport?
Nuclear transport
Easy
A.Rab
B.Ras
C.Rho
D.Ran
Correct Answer: Ran
Explanation:
The Ran GTPase gradient across the nuclear envelope determines the direction of import and export through nuclear pores.
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9The receptor proteins that carry cargo through nuclear pores are collectively called:
Nuclear transport
Easy
A.Clathrins
B.Karyopherins
C.Dyneins
D.Kinesins
Correct Answer: Karyopherins
Explanation:
Karyopherins, including importins and exportins, mediate the transport of cargo molecules through the nuclear pore complex.
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10Most proteins imported into mitochondria are synthesized:
Transport across mitochondria and chloroplasts
Easy
A.Within the nucleus
B.Inside the mitochondrial matrix
C.In the Golgi apparatus
D.On free cytosolic ribosomes
Correct Answer: On free cytosolic ribosomes
Explanation:
Most mitochondrial proteins are encoded by nuclear genes and made on cytosolic ribosomes, then imported into the organelle.
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11The protein complex in the mitochondrial outer membrane that imports proteins is the:
Transport across mitochondria and chloroplasts
Easy
A.SEC complex
B.TIM complex
C.TOM complex
D.TOC complex
Correct Answer: TOM complex
Explanation:
The TOM (Translocase of the Outer Membrane) complex mediates protein import across the outer mitochondrial membrane, while TIM works at the inner membrane.
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12Protein import into chloroplasts occurs through the TOC and TIC complexes located in the:
Transport across mitochondria and chloroplasts
Easy
A.Cytosol
B.Outer and inner envelope membranes
C.Stroma
D.Thylakoid membrane
Correct Answer: Outer and inner envelope membranes
Explanation:
The TOC and TIC complexes reside in the outer and inner chloroplast envelope membranes and work together to import proteins.
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13Proteins destined for mitochondria typically carry a targeting sequence at their:
Transport across mitochondria and chloroplasts
Easy
A.N-terminus
B.Both ends
C.Middle
D.C-terminus
Correct Answer: N-terminus
Explanation:
Mitochondrial targeting presequences are usually located at the N-terminus and are cleaved off after import.
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14In the secretory pathway, proteins follow which correct order of movement?
Intracellular vesicular trafficking from endoplasmic reticulum through Golgi apparatus to lysosomes/cell exterior
Easy
A.ER → Golgi → plasma membrane
B.Golgi → ER → plasma membrane
C.ER → lysosome → Golgi
D.Plasma membrane → Golgi → ER
Correct Answer: ER → Golgi → plasma membrane
Explanation:
Proteins in the secretory pathway are synthesized in the ER, processed in the Golgi, and then transported to the plasma membrane or secreted.
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15Which coat protein forms vesicles that transport cargo from the ER to the Golgi?
Intracellular vesicular trafficking from endoplasmic reticulum through Golgi apparatus to lysosomes/cell exterior
Easy
A.Clathrin
B.COPII
C.Caveolin
D.COPI
Correct Answer: COPII
Explanation:
COPII-coated vesicles mediate anterograde transport from the ER to the Golgi, while COPI handles retrograde transport.
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16Which coat protein is mainly involved in vesicle formation during receptor-mediated endocytosis?
Intracellular vesicular trafficking from endoplasmic reticulum through Golgi apparatus to lysosomes/cell exterior
Easy
A.Dynamin
B.Clathrin
C.COPII
D.COPI
Correct Answer: Clathrin
Explanation:
Clathrin coats form the pits and vesicles that internalize receptors and their ligands during receptor-mediated endocytosis.
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17Proteins that mediate the fusion of transport vesicles with their target membranes are called:
Intracellular vesicular trafficking from endoplasmic reticulum through Golgi apparatus to lysosomes/cell exterior
Easy
A.Cadherins
B.SNAREs
C.Kinesins
D.Integrins
Correct Answer: SNAREs
Explanation:
SNARE proteins on vesicles (v-SNAREs) and target membranes (t-SNAREs) pair up to drive membrane fusion.
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18Which organelle contains hydrolytic enzymes for the breakdown of macromolecules?
Intracellular vesicular trafficking from endoplasmic reticulum through Golgi apparatus to lysosomes/cell exterior
Easy
A.Centrosome
B.Peroxisome
C.Lysosome
D.Ribosome
Correct Answer: Lysosome
Explanation:
Lysosomes contain acid hydrolases that digest macromolecules, worn-out organelles, and material taken up by endocytosis.
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19During which phase of the cell cycle does DNA replication occur?
Cell cycle and its regulation: mitosis, meiosis and cytokinesis
Easy
A.S phase
B. phase
C. phase
D.M phase
Correct Answer: S phase
Explanation:
DNA synthesis (replication) takes place during the S (synthesis) phase of interphase.
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20Which enzymes drive progression through the cell cycle by binding to cyclins?
Cell cycle and its regulation: mitosis, meiosis and cytokinesis
Easy
A.Helicases
B.DNA polymerases
C.Phosphatases
D.Cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs)
Correct Answer: Cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs)
Explanation:
CDKs become active when bound to cyclins and phosphorylate target proteins to drive the cell cycle forward.
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21A cell maintains a high internal concentration and low internal concentration using the -ATPase. If a drug blocks ATP hydrolysis by this pump, which secondary effect is most likely to occur first?
Molecular mechanisms of membrane transport
Medium
A.Direct inhibition of facilitated diffusion of glucose
B.Immediate lysis of the cell due to osmotic influx of water
C.Collapse of the electrochemical gradient driving -coupled glucose uptake
D.Increased activity of voltage-gated channels
Correct Answer: Collapse of the electrochemical gradient driving -coupled glucose uptake
Explanation:
The -ATPase establishes the gradient that powers secondary active transporters such as the -glucose symporter. Blocking the pump dissipates this gradient, impairing coupled transport before other effects manifest.
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22A researcher observes that a solute crosses a membrane down its concentration gradient, shows saturation kinetics at high solute concentration, and requires no ATP. Which transport mechanism best explains these observations?
Molecular mechanisms of membrane transport
Medium
A.Secondary active transport (antiport)
B.Primary active transport
C.Simple diffusion through the lipid bilayer
D.Facilitated diffusion through a carrier protein
Correct Answer: Facilitated diffusion through a carrier protein
Explanation:
Saturation kinetics indicate a limited number of transporter binding sites, while movement down the gradient without ATP rules out active transport. Simple diffusion does not saturate, so facilitated diffusion is the correct answer.
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23The exchanger in cardiac cells extrudes one ion while importing three ions. This is best classified as:
Molecular mechanisms of membrane transport
Medium
A.Secondary active transport (symport)
B.Secondary active transport (antiport)
C.Facilitated diffusion
D.Primary active transport
Correct Answer: Secondary active transport (antiport)
Explanation:
The exchanger uses the energy stored in the gradient (not ATP directly) to move against its gradient in the opposite direction, making it a secondary active antiporter.
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24In red blood cells, the band 3 protein exchanges for across the membrane without energy input, and net movement can go either direction depending on gradients. This process is:
Molecular mechanisms of membrane transport
Medium
A.Simple diffusion of ions
B.Endocytosis of bicarbonate
C.Primary active transport
D.Facilitated diffusion via an anion exchanger
Correct Answer: Facilitated diffusion via an anion exchanger
Explanation:
Band 3 mediates a passive, energy-independent one-for-one anion exchange driven purely by electrochemical gradients, which is a form of facilitated diffusion (exchange diffusion).
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25A protein of kDa lacks a nuclear localization signal (NLS). What is the most likely outcome regarding its distribution?
nuclear transport
Medium
A.It is actively exported to the nucleus by importins
B.It freely diffuses into the nucleus through the nuclear pore complex
C.It accumulates in the nucleolus via ribosomal targeting
D.It remains in the cytoplasm because it is too large to passively diffuse through the nuclear pore
Correct Answer: It remains in the cytoplasm because it is too large to passively diffuse through the nuclear pore
Explanation:
Proteins larger than roughly kDa cannot passively diffuse through nuclear pores and require an NLS for importin-mediated import. Without an NLS, a kDa protein stays in the cytoplasm.
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26The directionality of nuclear import is maintained by the Ran GTPase system. Which condition holds in the nucleus to promote cargo release from importin?
nuclear transport
Medium
A.Absence of Ran promotes cargo binding to importin
B.High Ran-GDP concentration stabilizes the importin-cargo complex
C.High Ran-GTP concentration binds importin and releases the cargo
D.Ran-GTP is hydrolyzed to trap cargo in the cytoplasm
Correct Answer: High Ran-GTP concentration binds importin and releases the cargo
Explanation:
RanGEF in the nucleus keeps Ran-GTP high. Ran-GTP binding to importin causes a conformational change that releases the imported cargo, ensuring vectorial (one-way) transport.
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27Exportins recognize cargo bearing a nuclear export signal (NES) only when bound to Ran-GTP. Once the complex reaches the cytoplasm, what triggers cargo release?
nuclear transport
Medium
A.Increased cytoplasmic Ran-GTP concentration
B.Hydrolysis of Ran-GTP to Ran-GDP stimulated by cytoplasmic RanGAP
C.Binding of additional importin molecules in the cytoplasm
D.Phosphorylation of the NES by cytoplasmic kinases
Correct Answer: Hydrolysis of Ran-GTP to Ran-GDP stimulated by cytoplasmic RanGAP
Explanation:
Cytoplasmic RanGAP stimulates GTP hydrolysis, converting Ran-GTP to Ran-GDP. This disassembles the exportin-cargo-Ran complex, releasing the cargo in the cytoplasm.
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28A mitochondrial matrix protein is synthesized in the cytosol with an N-terminal presequence. Which feature of this presequence is essential for its import through the TOM and TIM23 complexes?
transport across mitochondria and chloroplasts
Medium
A.A mannose-6-phosphate tag added in the cytosol
B.A C-terminal KDEL retention motif
C.A hydrophobic stretch that anchors it in the outer membrane
D.An amphipathic -helix with positively charged residues
Correct Answer: An amphipathic -helix with positively charged residues
Explanation:
Matrix-targeting presequences form amphipathic helices rich in positive charges, which are recognized by TOM receptors and drawn across TIM23 by the electrochemical potential (negative inside) of the inner membrane.
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29The import of nuclear-encoded proteins into the mitochondrial matrix requires energy from two sources. These are:
transport across mitochondria and chloroplasts
Medium
A.GTP hydrolysis by Ran and the proton gradient
B.The outer membrane potential and cytosolic Hsp90
C.ATP hydrolysis by the ATP synthase alone
D.The inner membrane potential () and ATP hydrolysis by mtHsp70
Correct Answer: The inner membrane potential () and ATP hydrolysis by mtHsp70
Explanation:
The membrane potential drives the positively charged presequence across TIM23, while matrix mtHsp70 uses ATP hydrolysis in a ratchet/motor mechanism to pull the polypeptide fully into the matrix.
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30Unlike mitochondrial matrix import, protein import into the chloroplast stroma via the TOC/TIC complexes relies primarily on which energy source?
transport across mitochondria and chloroplasts
Medium
A.ATP and GTP hydrolysis rather than a transmembrane potential
B.A proton-motive force generated by photosynthesis
C.The mannose-6-phosphate receptor pathway
D.The inner membrane electrochemical potential like TIM23
Correct Answer: ATP and GTP hydrolysis rather than a transmembrane potential
Explanation:
Chloroplast stromal import through TOC/TIC is driven by GTP hydrolysis at the receptors and ATP-dependent stromal chaperones, since the chloroplast envelope does not maintain a large membrane potential comparable to the mitochondrial inner membrane.
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31Anterograde transport of newly synthesized proteins from the ER to the Golgi apparatus is mediated by which type of coated vesicle?
Intracellular vesicular trafficking from endoplasmic reticulum through Golgi apparatus to lysosomes/cell exterior
Medium
A.Clathrin-coated vesicles
B.Caveolin-coated vesicles
C.COPI-coated vesicles
D.COPII-coated vesicles
Correct Answer: COPII-coated vesicles
Explanation:
COPII coats assemble at ER exit sites and mediate forward (anterograde) transport from the ER to the Golgi. COPI mediates retrograde transport, and clathrin operates mainly at the plasma membrane and trans-Golgi network.
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32A soluble ER-resident enzyme escapes to the Golgi. How is it retrieved back to the ER?
Intracellular vesicular trafficking from endoplasmic reticulum through Golgi apparatus to lysosomes/cell exterior
Medium
A.It is tagged with mannose-6-phosphate and sent to lysosomes
B.It is retained by an NLS and imported into the nucleus
C.Its C-terminal KDEL sequence is recognized by the KDEL receptor and returned in COPI vesicles
D.Its N-terminal presequence directs it back through TOM/TIM
Correct Answer: Its C-terminal KDEL sequence is recognized by the KDEL receptor and returned in COPI vesicles
Explanation:
Soluble ER-resident proteins carry a KDEL motif. In the Golgi, the KDEL receptor binds them and packages them into retrograde COPI-coated vesicles for return to the ER.
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33Lysosomal hydrolases are specifically targeted from the trans-Golgi network to lysosomes by which molecular tag?
Intracellular vesicular trafficking from endoplasmic reticulum through Golgi apparatus to lysosomes/cell exterior
Medium
A.KDEL recognized by the KDEL receptor
B.Mannose-6-phosphate recognized by the M6P receptor
C.A nuclear localization signal recognized by importin
D.Ubiquitin recognized by the proteasome
Correct Answer: Mannose-6-phosphate recognized by the M6P receptor
Explanation:
Lysosomal enzymes acquire mannose-6-phosphate tags in the cis-Golgi. The M6P receptor in the trans-Golgi network binds these tags and directs the enzymes into clathrin-coated vesicles bound for late endosomes/lysosomes.
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34The specificity of vesicle fusion with a target membrane is primarily determined by the pairing of:
Intracellular vesicular trafficking from endoplasmic reticulum through Golgi apparatus to lysosomes/cell exterior
Medium
A.v-SNAREs on the vesicle with cognate t-SNAREs on the target membrane
B.KDEL receptors with mannose-6-phosphate tags
C.Rab-GDP with GDI on both membranes
D.Clathrin triskelions with adaptor proteins
Correct Answer: v-SNAREs on the vesicle with cognate t-SNAREs on the target membrane
Explanation:
Fusion specificity relies on complementary v-SNARE and t-SNARE pairing, which brings the two membranes together. Rab GTPases and tethering factors assist in the initial docking that precedes SNARE zippering.
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35The activity of cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs) oscillates through the cell cycle. What primarily controls this oscillation?
Cell cycle and its regulation: mitosis, meiosis and cytokinesis
Medium
A.Oscillation of ATP concentration in the cytosol
B.Changes in the number of ribosomes
C.Periodic synthesis and degradation of cyclin partners
D.Fluctuating levels of the CDK proteins themselves
Correct Answer: Periodic synthesis and degradation of cyclin partners
Explanation:
CDK levels remain relatively constant, but their regulatory cyclin partners are synthesized and destroyed in a cyclical manner. This periodic cyclin availability drives the rise and fall of CDK activity across the cell cycle.
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36The spindle assembly checkpoint (SAC) prevents progression from metaphase to anaphase until:
Cell cycle and its regulation: mitosis, meiosis and cytokinesis
Medium
A.The nuclear envelope has completely reformed
B.All DNA has been fully replicated
C.Cytokinesis has been initiated
D.All kinetochores are properly attached to spindle microtubules
Correct Answer: All kinetochores are properly attached to spindle microtubules
Explanation:
The SAC monitors kinetochore-microtubule attachment. Until every chromosome is correctly bi-oriented, the checkpoint inhibits the anaphase-promoting complex (APC/C), delaying sister chromatid separation to prevent aneuploidy.
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37Separation of sister chromatids at anaphase is triggered when separase cleaves cohesin. Separase is kept inactive until this point by:
Cell cycle and its regulation: mitosis, meiosis and cytokinesis
Medium
A.Association with the KDEL receptor
B.Sequestration inside the nucleolus
C.Phosphorylation by M-CDK
D.Binding to the inhibitory protein securin
Correct Answer: Binding to the inhibitory protein securin
Explanation:
Securin binds and inhibits separase. At the metaphase-to-anaphase transition, the APC/C targets securin for degradation, freeing separase to cleave cohesin and allowing sister chromatids to separate.
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38A key difference between meiosis I and mitosis is that during meiosis I:
Cell cycle and its regulation: mitosis, meiosis and cytokinesis
Medium
A.DNA replication occurs between the two divisions
B.Sister chromatids separate to opposite poles
C.No crossing over takes place at any stage
D.Homologous chromosomes separate while sister chromatids remain joined
Correct Answer: Homologous chromosomes separate while sister chromatids remain joined
Explanation:
In meiosis I, homologous chromosomes (each still consisting of two sister chromatids) are separated, reducing ploidy. Sister chromatids do not separate until meiosis II, unlike mitosis where they separate in a single division.
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39In animal cell cytokinesis, the contractile ring that pinches the cell in two is composed mainly of:
Cell cycle and its regulation: mitosis, meiosis and cytokinesis
Medium
A.Intermediate filaments and keratin
B.Septins and clathrin
C.Actin filaments and myosin II
D.Microtubules and dynein
Correct Answer: Actin filaments and myosin II
Explanation:
The contractile ring assembles from actin filaments and myosin II beneath the plasma membrane at the cleavage furrow. Its constriction, driven by myosin-based sliding, divides the cytoplasm during animal cytokinesis.
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40The retinoblastoma protein (Rb) restrains the transition by binding and inhibiting E2F transcription factors. How is this restraint relieved?
Cell cycle and its regulation: mitosis, meiosis and cytokinesis
Medium
A.Degradation of E2F by the APC/C
B.Phosphorylation of Rb by /S-CDK complexes releases E2F
C.Binding of securin to Rb
D.Dephosphorylation of Rb by cytoplasmic phosphatases
Correct Answer: Phosphorylation of Rb by /S-CDK complexes releases E2F
Explanation:
Active /S-CDK complexes phosphorylate Rb, causing it to release E2F. Free E2F then activates transcription of genes required for DNA replication, allowing passage through the restriction point into S phase.
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41In a secondary active transport process, the symporter (SGLT1) moves 2 ions per glucose molecule. If the intracellular glucose concentration is -fold higher than extracellular, what minimum electrochemical gradient (expressed as the ratio of driving force) is theoretically required to sustain uphill glucose accumulation at , assuming membrane potential contribution is embedded in the gradient?
Molecular mechanisms of membrane transport
Hard
A.A single gradient of -fold is sufficient regardless of stoichiometry
B.The combined electrochemical energy from 2 ions must exceed
C.The glucose gradient is irrelevant because symport is thermodynamically spontaneous
D.The combined electrochemical energy from 2 ions must exceed
Correct Answer: The combined electrochemical energy from 2 ions must exceed
Explanation:
The free energy to concentrate glucose -fold is . Since 2 ions couple to 1 glucose, the sum of their electrochemical driving energies must exceed this single term. Distributing energy over 2 ions means each ion supplies less, but the total must surpass .
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42The -ATPase undergoes E1/E2 conformational cycling. A mutation locks the pump preferentially in the E2-P (phosphorylated) state with high extracellular affinity but impaired dephosphorylation. What is the most direct consequence?
Molecular mechanisms of membrane transport
Hard
A.Continuous export accelerates due to trapped high-energy intermediate
B.The pump stalls because cannot be released into the cytoplasm
C.ATP hydrolysis increases to compensate for the block
D. is exported instead of imported, reversing polarity
Correct Answer: The pump stalls because cannot be released into the cytoplasm
Explanation:
Dephosphorylation of E2-P triggers the conformational shift back to E1, which lowers affinity and releases inside. Blocking dephosphorylation traps bound extracellularly-facing, stalling the cycle. No net transport of either ion occurs.
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43GLUT1 facilitates glucose uptake by alternating access. Which experimental observation would most strongly distinguish a facilitated diffusion carrier from a channel for the same solute?
Molecular mechanisms of membrane transport
Hard
A.Transport is blocked by removing the electrochemical gradient
B.Transport requires direct ATP hydrolysis at the binding site
C.Transport shows saturation kinetics and a defined
D.Transport rate increases linearly without limit as substrate rises
Correct Answer: Transport shows saturation kinetics and a defined
Explanation:
Carriers bind substrate at discrete sites and undergo conformational cycling, so they saturate and exhibit Michaelis-Menten-like . Channels conduct ions/solutes at rates far higher and typically do not saturate over physiological ranges, making saturation the key distinguishing feature.
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44Ran-GTP asymmetry drives directional nucleocytoplasmic transport. If a cell is treated to deplete RanGAP specifically at the cytoplasmic face of the NPC, what is the predicted effect on importin-mediated cargo import?
Nuclear transport
Hard
A.Import continues normally because RanGEF is unaffected
B.Import is impaired because cargo-importin complexes fail to dissociate efficiently in the nucleus
C.Import halts because importin cannot recycle back to the cytoplasm to bind new cargo
D.Import reverses, exporting nuclear cargo into the cytoplasm
Correct Answer: Import halts because importin cannot recycle back to the cytoplasm to bind new cargo
Explanation:
RanGAP triggers GTP hydrolysis on Ran in the cytoplasm, releasing importin from Ran-GTP so it can rebind cargo. Without cytoplasmic RanGAP, importin stays bound to Ran-GTP after export and cannot pick up new cargo, stalling the import cycle.
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45A protein of 82 kDa lacking any classical NLS is found concentrated in the nucleus at steady state. Which mechanism most plausibly explains this without invoking a canonical importin- NLS pathway?
Nuclear transport
Hard
A.Direct passage because 82 kDa is below the NPC diffusion limit
B.Active export by CRM1 concentrates it inside
C.Passive diffusion through the NPC central channel followed by nuclear retention via binding to chromatin
D.Karyopherin-independent transport is thermodynamically impossible
Correct Answer: Passive diffusion through the NPC central channel followed by nuclear retention via binding to chromatin
Explanation:
Although 82 kDa exceeds the ~40 kDa passive diffusion limit, some large proteins slowly equilibrate and are then retained by binding nuclear components (chromatin, nuclear proteins). Retention shifts the steady-state distribution nuclear-ward without a classical NLS.
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46The FG-repeat nucleoporins form a selective permeability barrier. According to the selective phase (hydrogel) model, how do transport receptors traverse this barrier?
Nuclear transport
Hard
A.They bind FG-repeats to locally dissolve the meshwork and diffuse through
B.They enzymatically cleave FG-repeats to open a passage
C.They are pumped through by ATP hydrolysis at the NPC scaffold
D.They create transient pores by displacing FG-repeats through hydrophobic interactions
Correct Answer: They bind FG-repeats to locally dissolve the meshwork and diffuse through
Explanation:
In the selective phase model, FG-repeats form a hydrogel via weak hydrophobic FG-FG interactions. Transport receptors have surface patches that transiently bind FG motifs, locally dissolving the meshwork and partitioning into the phase, allowing passage. No ATP is used at the NPC itself.
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47A mitochondrial matrix-targeted protein is engineered to fold rapidly and stably in the cytosol before reaching the TOM complex. What is the most likely outcome regarding its import?
Transport across mitochondria and chloroplasts
Hard
A.The protein is imported into the intermembrane space instead of the matrix
B.Import is blocked because the protein cannot be threaded through TOM/TIM23 in unfolded form
C.Import occurs but the presequence is not cleaved
D.Import proceeds faster because the folded protein is more stable
Correct Answer: Import is blocked because the protein cannot be threaded through TOM/TIM23 in unfolded form
Explanation:
Matrix import via TOM/TIM23 requires the polypeptide to be translocated in an unfolded, extended state. Cytosolic chaperones (Hsp70) normally keep precursors import-competent (unfolded). A tightly prefolded protein cannot thread through the narrow translocation channels, blocking import.
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48TIM23-mediated import into the matrix requires two energy inputs. Which combination correctly identifies both and their roles?
Transport across mitochondria and chloroplasts
Hard
A.Only matrix ATP is required; the membrane potential is dispensable
B. powers the motor; GTP hydrolysis drives presequence movement
C.ATP hydrolysis at TOM drives entry; completes translocation
D.Membrane potential drives presequence translocation; matrix ATP powers the import motor (mtHsp70)
Correct Answer: Membrane potential drives presequence translocation; matrix ATP powers the import motor (mtHsp70)
Explanation:
The inner membrane potential (, negative inside) electrophoretically drives the positively charged presequence across TIM23. Then the PAM motor, driven by mtHsp70 ATP hydrolysis, ratchets the rest of the polypeptide into the matrix. Both inputs are essential.
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49Chloroplast protein import via TOC/TIC differs from mitochondrial import in its energy requirement. Which statement correctly captures a key distinction?
Transport across mitochondria and chloroplasts
Hard
A.Chloroplast import requires a thylakoid membrane potential analogous to mitochondrial
B.Chloroplast import is entirely passive once the transit peptide binds
C.Chloroplast import into the stroma requires GTP at TOC and stromal ATP, without needing a membrane potential
D.Both organelles use identical presequence receptors and translocons
Correct Answer: Chloroplast import into the stroma requires GTP at TOC and stromal ATP, without needing a membrane potential
Explanation:
TOC receptors (Toc34, Toc159) are GTPases requiring GTP for cargo recognition/gating, and stromal chaperones use ATP to drive translocation. Unlike mitochondria, chloroplast envelope import does not depend on a transmembrane electrical potential.
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50A protein carries both an N-terminal mitochondrial matrix presequence and, immediately downstream, a hydrophobic stop-transfer sequence. Where will this protein most likely localize?
Transport across mitochondria and chloroplasts
Hard
A.Outer membrane, inserted by the SAM complex
B.Intermembrane space as a soluble protein after full cleavage
C.Matrix, because the presequence dominates targeting
D.Inner membrane, with the stop-transfer arresting lateral release into the lipid bilayer
Correct Answer: Inner membrane, with the stop-transfer arresting lateral release into the lipid bilayer
Explanation:
The presequence initiates TIM23 import, but the following hydrophobic stop-transfer sequence halts translocation and is laterally released into the inner membrane. This 'stop-transfer' pathway integrates the protein into the inner membrane rather than fully importing it to the matrix.
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51A mutation abolishes the GTPase activity of Sar1 (locking it in the GTP-bound state) in the COPII pathway. What is the most direct consequence for ER-to-Golgi transport?
Intracellular vesicular trafficking from endoplasmic reticulum through Golgi apparatus to lysosomes/cell exterior
Hard
A.COPII coats assemble but fail to disassemble, impairing vesicle uncoating and fusion
B.ER exit accelerates due to constitutive coat activity
C.Cargo is redirected to COPI-mediated retrograde transport
D.COPII vesicles never form because coat recruitment requires GTP hydrolysis
Correct Answer: COPII coats assemble but fail to disassemble, impairing vesicle uncoating and fusion
Explanation:
Sar1-GTP recruits the COPII coat; GTP hydrolysis (stimulated by Sec23 GAP activity) triggers coat disassembly after budding. Locking Sar1 in the GTP state prevents uncoating, so vesicles cannot shed their coats and fuse with target membranes.
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52In I-cell disease (mucolipidosis II), lysosomal enzymes are secreted rather than delivered to lysosomes. The primary defect lies in which step?
Intracellular vesicular trafficking from endoplasmic reticulum through Golgi apparatus to lysosomes/cell exterior
Hard
A.Loss of the mannose-6-phosphate receptor in the trans-Golgi
B.Failure of clathrin-coated vesicle budding from the trans-Golgi
C.Defective acidification of the lysosomal lumen
D.Deficiency of GlcNAc phosphotransferase preventing M6P tag addition
Correct Answer: Deficiency of GlcNAc phosphotransferase preventing M6P tag addition
Explanation:
I-cell disease results from loss of GlcNAc phosphotransferase, the enzyme that adds the mannose-6-phosphate (M6P) tag to lysosomal hydrolases in the cis-Golgi. Without the M6P tag, the M6P receptor cannot sort the enzymes, so they default to secretion.
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53SNARE-mediated fusion requires specific v-SNARE/t-SNARE pairing. NSF/-SNAP function to disassemble cis-SNARE complexes. If NSF is inhibited, what accumulates and why?
Intracellular vesicular trafficking from endoplasmic reticulum through Golgi apparatus to lysosomes/cell exterior
Hard
A.cis-SNARE complexes accumulate, depleting free SNAREs available for new rounds of fusion
B.Rab-GTP is depleted, halting tethering
C.Uncoated vesicles accumulate because coat removal fails
D.trans-SNARE complexes accumulate because fusion cannot initiate
Correct Answer: cis-SNARE complexes accumulate, depleting free SNAREs available for new rounds of fusion
Explanation:
After fusion, v- and t-SNAREs reside in the same membrane as a stable cis-complex. NSF (an ATPase) with -SNAP pries these apart to recycle SNAREs. Inhibiting NSF traps SNAREs in cis-complexes, so free SNAREs run out and fusion cycles stall.
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54A soluble ER-resident protein bearing a KDEL sequence is found leaking into the medium at low levels. Which mechanism best explains why most such protein is normally retained despite bulk flow toward the Golgi?
Intracellular vesicular trafficking from endoplasmic reticulum through Golgi apparatus to lysosomes/cell exterior
Hard
A.KDEL prevents any exit from the ER by blocking COPII loading
B.The KDEL receptor exports the proteins directly out of the cell
C.KDEL proteins are covalently anchored to the ER membrane
D.The KDEL receptor in the cis-Golgi binds escaped proteins and returns them via COPI retrograde transport
Correct Answer: The KDEL receptor in the cis-Golgi binds escaped proteins and returns them via COPI retrograde transport
Explanation:
ER-resident proteins that escape to the Golgi are captured by the KDEL receptor (whose binding is pH-dependent, favoring the acidic Golgi). The receptor-cargo complex is packaged into COPI vesicles and returned to the ER, achieving retrieval-based retention.
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55The spindle assembly checkpoint (SAC) delays anaphase until all kinetochores are attached. A cell has a single unattached kinetochore. Which molecular event is directly prevented by the active SAC?
Cell cycle and its regulation: mitosis, meiosis and cytokinesis
Hard
A.Cdk1 activation by Cdc25 phosphatase
B.APC/C-Cdc20 activation, thereby blocking securin and cyclin B degradation
C.Separase inhibition by securin binding
D.Cohesin loading onto sister chromatids at S phase
Correct Answer: APC/C-Cdc20 activation, thereby blocking securin and cyclin B degradation
Explanation:
An unattached kinetochore generates the mitotic checkpoint complex (MCC) that sequesters Cdc20, preventing APC/C-Cdc20 activation. Without active APC/C, securin and cyclin B are not degraded, so separase stays inhibited and anaphase is delayed.
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56In meiosis I, sister chromatids must remain attached at the centromere while chromosome arms separate. Which mechanism protects centromeric cohesin from cleavage during meiosis I?
Cell cycle and its regulation: mitosis, meiosis and cytokinesis
Hard
A.Shugoshin (Sgo1) recruits PP2A to dephosphorylate and protect centromeric cohesin (Rec8) from separase
B.Condensin displaces cohesin only from the arms after cleavage
C.Centromeric cohesin lacks the cleavage site recognized by separase
D.Separase is completely inactivated during meiosis I
Correct Answer: Shugoshin (Sgo1) recruits PP2A to dephosphorylate and protect centromeric cohesin (Rec8) from separase
Explanation:
Rec8 cleavage by separase requires its phosphorylation. Shugoshin at centromeres recruits PP2A phosphatase, keeping centromeric Rec8 dephosphorylated and thus resistant to separase during meiosis I. Arm cohesin is cleaved, allowing homolog separation while sisters stay joined.
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57The restriction point (R) in G1 is governed by Rb phosphorylation. A cell expresses a mutant Rb that cannot be phosphorylated by Cyclin D-Cdk4/6. What is the predicted phenotype?
Cell cycle and its regulation: mitosis, meiosis and cytokinesis
Hard
A.Cells arrest in G2 due to failed E2F release
B.Cells proliferate uncontrollably because Rb is inactive
C.Cells arrest in G1 because E2F remains sequestered and S-phase genes are not transcribed
D.Cells skip G1 and enter S phase prematurely
Correct Answer: Cells arrest in G1 because E2F remains sequestered and S-phase genes are not transcribed
Explanation:
Hypophosphorylated Rb binds and inhibits E2F. Normally Cyclin D-Cdk4/6 phosphorylates Rb to release E2F, driving S-phase gene expression. A non-phosphorylatable Rb permanently sequesters E2F, blocking S-phase entry and arresting cells in G1.
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58Cyclin B-Cdk1 (MPF) activity rises abruptly at the G2/M transition. Which positive feedback loop explains the switch-like activation?
Cell cycle and its regulation: mitosis, meiosis and cytokinesis
Hard
A.Cdk1 stabilizes its own cyclin against APC/C degradation
B.Cdc25 inactivates Cdk1, creating a negative feedback delay
C.Cyclin B synthesis is triggered directly by Cdk1 autophosphorylation
Active Cdk1 phosphorylates and activates Cdc25 (which removes inhibitory phosphates from Cdk1) while phosphorylating and inhibiting Wee1 (which adds them). This double-positive feedback creates a bistable, switch-like burst of MPF activity at G2/M.
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59During cytokinesis in animal cells, positioning of the contractile ring is dictated by the mitotic spindle. Which signaling correctly describes RhoA-based furrow specification?
Cell cycle and its regulation: mitosis, meiosis and cytokinesis
Hard
A.The midbody recruits dynamin to constrict the membrane independently of RhoA
B.Astral microtubules directly nucleate actin filaments at the cortex
C.The central spindle and astral microtubules position the RhoGEF Ect2, activating RhoA to assemble the actomyosin ring at the equator
D.RhoA is globally activated and locally inhibited only at the poles by Ran-GTP
Correct Answer: The central spindle and astral microtubules position the RhoGEF Ect2, activating RhoA to assemble the actomyosin ring at the equator
Explanation:
Spindle-derived signals (centralspindlin complex) localize the RhoGEF Ect2 to the equatorial cortex, where it activates RhoA. Active RhoA drives formin-mediated actin assembly and myosin II activation, forming the contractile ring precisely at the cell equator.
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60The CFTR chloride channel is an ABC transporter family member that functions as a channel rather than a pump. Which feature explains this unusual behavior?
Molecular mechanisms of membrane transport
Hard
A.It uses the gradient to conduct downhill
B.It hydrolyzes ATP to pump against its gradient like a canonical ABC pump
C.It conducts without any nucleotide involvement
D.ATP binding/hydrolysis at its nucleotide-binding domains gates an open channel pore rather than driving alternating access
Correct Answer: ATP binding/hydrolysis at its nucleotide-binding domains gates an open channel pore rather than driving alternating access
Explanation:
CFTR retains ABC-transporter architecture with two nucleotide-binding domains, but ATP binding dimerizes the NBDs to open a continuous -conducting pore, and hydrolysis closes it. Thus ATP gates a channel rather than powering vectorial pumping, allowing downhill flow.
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