Multiple Choice
The source of phosphate for a phosphorylation cascade is __________.
10. Cell Signaling
Signal Amplification
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Second messengers tend to be water-soluble and small. This accounts for their ability to __________.
A
rapidly cross the plasma membrane
B
pass quickly from cell to cell
C
move from substrate to substrate during a phosphorylation cascade
D
cross the nuclear membrane and interact with DNA
E
rapidly move throughout the cell by diffusion
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the role of second messengers in cellular signaling. They are molecules that relay signals received by receptors on the cell surface to target molecules inside the cell.
Recognize that second messengers are typically small and water-soluble, which allows them to diffuse quickly through the cytoplasm.
Consider the options given: crossing the plasma membrane, passing between cells, moving during a phosphorylation cascade, and crossing the nuclear membrane. Evaluate each based on the properties of second messengers.
Recall that second messengers do not need to cross the plasma membrane as they are already inside the cell, and they do not typically pass between cells or cross the nuclear membrane.
Conclude that the small size and solubility of second messengers enable them to rapidly move throughout the cell by diffusion, facilitating quick signal transduction within the cell.
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