Final answer:
The GFA)-1 cells grown in +As/-P medium would likely exhibit: b) decreased growth and proliferation due to arsenic's inhibition of oxidative phosphorylation, impacting ATP production and mimicking symptoms of cystic fibrosis.
Step-by-step explanation:
Given the information about GFA)-1 cells, the predictions for GFA)-1 cells grown in +As/-P medium (medium with arsenic and without phosphorus) rely on understanding the biological mechanisms affected by arsenic. Arsenic poisoning disrupts ATP production by inhibiting enzymes in the oxidative phosphorylation pathway, leading to symptoms similar to cystic fibrosis. Therefore, with arsenic present in the medium, we can predict decreased growth and proliferation of GFA)-1 cells, due to the toxin's impact on the cells' energy production capabilities. The correct answer would be b) Decreased growth and proliferation due to the presence of arsenic.
Arsenic's inhibition of several enzymes in oxidative phosphorylation affects membrane transport, moving more electrolytes into the cell, dehydrating the mucus, and leading to symptoms like those seen in cystic fibrosis. Since the GFA)-1 cells would be grown in a medium containing arsenic, they would likely suffer from similar biochemical limitations, resulting in decreased growth and proliferation due to energy production being compromised. The answer is option b.