Question

A scientist observes a mutation in the transmembrane region of EGFR that eliminates its ability to be stabilized by binding interactions during dimerization after ligand binding. Which hypothesis regarding the effect of this mutation on EGF signaling is most likely to be correct?

a. EGF signaling cascades would be active for a longer duration in the cell.
b. EGF signaling cascades would be active for a shorter period of time in the cell.
c. EGF signaling cascades would not occur.
d. EGF signaling would be unaffected.

Answer 1

The mutation in the transmembrane region of EGFR would most likely result in EGF signaling cascades being active for a shorter period due to instability in the receptor dimerization process, crucial for effective signaling. Therefore correct option is B

Step-by-step explanation:

A scientist observes a mutation in the transmembrane region of EGFR that eliminates its ability to be stabilized by binding interactions during dimerization after ligand binding. The most likely effect of this mutation on EGF signaling would be that EGF signaling cascades would be active for a shorter period of time in the cell.

Normally, the binding of the EGF to its receptor tyrosine kinase results in dimerization and stabilization, which is essential for the subsequent signaling cascade that leads to cell division. These processes are part of the MAP-kinase cascade and FAS-RAS signaling, which are crucial for cellular metabolism and proliferation. However, if EGFR cannot stabilize during dimerization due to a mutation, it may not effectively activate or may quickly deactivate, thus shortening the signaling cascade duration.