In order for active transport systems to function while maintaining membrane asymmetry, they must a. Activate a G-protein b. Undergo eversion
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is b. Undergo eversion.
Active transport mechanisms require energy to move molecules across a membrane against their concentration gradient. This process is crucial for maintaining the asymmetry of the plasma membrane, which means that the composition of molecules on either side of the membrane must remain distinct.
Eversion refers to the process where a membrane-bound transport protein temporarily changes shape by flipping or inverting to expose its binding sites on the opposite side of the membrane. This change in conformation allows the protein to transport molecules from one side of the membrane to the other. By using energy, often in the form of ATP, the active transport protein ensures that molecules like ions (e.g., sodium, potassium, calcium) or larger molecules (e.g., glucose, amino acids) are moved in the desired direction, regardless of their natural concentration gradient.
This eversion mechanism is especially important in the case of ion pumps, such as the sodium-potassium pump, which helps maintain the necessary ion gradients across the membrane. These gradients are vital for processes like nerve impulse transmission, muscle contraction, and maintaining cell volume.
Without eversion, the transport protein would not be able to flip back and forth, allowing it to efficiently transport molecules across the membrane while keeping the asymmetry of the lipid bilayer intact. This process ensures proper cellular function and helps maintain homeostasis.