Distinguishing Channel Proteins from Carrier Proteins

Hard Biology Cellular Biology

The cellular membrane is a crucial component that regulates the entry and exit of substances, maintaining homeostasis within the cell. Integral membrane proteins play key roles in transporting substances across the cell membrane. These proteins can be classified into various types based on their mechanisms of transport, including channels, carriers, and pumps. An essential mechanism for maintaining the electrochemical gradient across the cellular membrane is the sodium-potassium pump (Na+/K+ ATPase), which actively transports sodium ions out and potassium ions into the cell against their concentration gradients.

Consider the roles of different membrane proteins in cellular transport processes. Which of the following statements correctly describes a feature of a channel protein in contrast to a carrier protein?

Channel proteins undergo a conformational change when binding to the solute.

Carrier proteins allow the diffusion of specific ions and small polar molecules.

Channel proteins directly use ATP to transport substances across the membrane.

Carrier proteins facilitate transport by binding to specific solutes before passing them through.

Hint

Submitted12.5K

Correct9.4K

% Correct75%