Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video
Multiple Choice
In eukaryotic cells, which of the following is a second messenger that is produced as a response to an external signal such as a hormone?
A
Glycogen
B
tRNA
C
Epinephrine
D
Glucose
E
Cyclic AMP
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of second messengers: Second messengers are molecules that relay signals received at receptors on the cell surface to target molecules inside the cell, creating a cascade of biochemical events.
Identify the role of cyclic AMP (cAMP): Cyclic AMP is a common second messenger in eukaryotic cells. It is synthesized from ATP by the enzyme adenylate cyclase in response to external signals such as hormones.
Recognize the function of cAMP: Once produced, cAMP activates protein kinase A (PKA), which then phosphorylates various target proteins, leading to a cellular response.
Differentiate between the options: Glycogen, tRNA, epinephrine, and glucose are not second messengers. Glycogen is a storage form of glucose, tRNA is involved in protein synthesis, epinephrine is a hormone, and glucose is a simple sugar.
Conclude with the correct identification: Cyclic AMP is the second messenger produced in response to external signals like hormones, facilitating intracellular communication and response.