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Multiple Choice
IRS-1 is an essential adaptor protein in the insulin signaling pathway. If IRS-1 was overexpressed in muscle cells, what effect would you expect to see on glycogen synthesis?
A
Protein kinase B would remain inactive, resulting in increased glycogen synthesis.
B
Protein kinase B would be overstimulated, resulting in increased glycogen synthesis.
C
Protein kinase B would remain inactive, resulting in decreased glycogen synthesis.
D
Protein kinase B would be overstimulated, resulting in decreased glycogen synthesis.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the role of IRS-1: IRS-1 (Insulin Receptor Substrate 1) is a key adaptor protein in the insulin signaling pathway. It facilitates the transmission of signals from the insulin receptor to downstream signaling molecules.
Consider the effect of IRS-1 overexpression: Overexpression of IRS-1 in muscle cells would likely enhance the insulin signaling pathway, as more IRS-1 would be available to propagate the signal.
Analyze the downstream effects: Enhanced insulin signaling typically leads to the activation of Protein Kinase B (PKB, also known as Akt). PKB plays a crucial role in promoting glycogen synthesis by phosphorylating and inactivating glycogen synthase kinase 3 (GSK-3), which otherwise inhibits glycogen synthase.
Predict the outcome on glycogen synthesis: With IRS-1 overexpressed, PKB would be overstimulated, leading to increased glycogen synthesis due to the inactivation of GSK-3 and subsequent activation of glycogen synthase.
Evaluate the options: The correct answer aligns with the understanding that overstimulation of PKB results in increased glycogen synthesis, as opposed to decreased synthesis or PKB remaining inactive.