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Multiple Choice
A difference between the mechanisms of cAMP and Ca2+ in signal transduction is that cAMP __________ and Ca2+ __________.
A
is always present at high levels in the cytosol; is present at low levels in the absence of a signal
B
is stored in the endoplasmic reticulum; is never stored in the cell
C
is tyrosine-kinase-receptor linked; is G-protein-receptor linked
D
enters the cell via a transmembrane protein channel; enters the cell by diffusing across the plasma membrane
E
is synthesized by an enzyme in response to a signal; is released from intracellular stores
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the role of cAMP and Ca2+ in signal transduction. cAMP (cyclic adenosine monophosphate) is a second messenger important in many biological processes, while Ca2+ (calcium ions) also acts as a second messenger in various signaling pathways.
Recognize that cAMP is synthesized in response to a signal. This synthesis is typically catalyzed by the enzyme adenylyl cyclase, which converts ATP to cAMP when activated by a signal, such as a hormone binding to a receptor.
Identify that Ca2+ is released from intracellular stores in response to a signal. In many cells, calcium ions are stored in the endoplasmic reticulum and are released into the cytosol when a signal is received, often through the action of inositol trisphosphate (IP3) or other signaling molecules.
Differentiate between the synthesis of cAMP and the release of Ca2+. While cAMP is synthesized de novo in response to a signal, Ca2+ is not synthesized but rather released from pre-existing stores within the cell.
Conclude that the key difference in their mechanisms is that cAMP is synthesized by an enzyme in response to a signal, whereas Ca2+ is released from intracellular stores, such as the endoplasmic reticulum, in response to a signal.