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Multiple Choice
Which mechanism explains the weight loss effect of 2,4-Dinitrophenol (DNP) in the body?
A
DNP acts as a protonophore, uncoupling oxidative phosphorylation and increasing metabolic rate.
B
DNP inhibits the synthesis of fatty acids, leading to reduced fat storage.
C
DNP blocks carbohydrate digestion, resulting in decreased caloric intake.
D
DNP enhances the absorption of nutrients in the intestines, leading to increased energy expenditure.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the role of 2,4-Dinitrophenol (DNP) in cellular metabolism. DNP is known to affect the process of oxidative phosphorylation in mitochondria.
Oxidative phosphorylation is a metabolic pathway that uses energy released by the oxidation of nutrients to produce ATP, the energy currency of the cell.
DNP acts as a protonophore, which means it facilitates the transport of protons (H+) across the mitochondrial membrane, bypassing ATP synthase.
By uncoupling oxidative phosphorylation, DNP disrupts the proton gradient needed for ATP production, causing the energy to be released as heat instead of being stored as ATP.
This uncoupling effect increases the metabolic rate as the body attempts to compensate for the reduced efficiency in ATP production, leading to weight loss due to increased energy expenditure.