224k views
4 votes
Ligand-gated ion channels have the ability to change the permeability of the membrane to certain ions when the ligand binds. True or False?

1 Answer

2 votes

Final answer:

Ligand-gated ion channels have the ability to change the permeability of the membrane to certain ions when the ligand binds.

Step-by-step explanation:

True. Ligand-gated ion channels are a type of cell-surface receptor that open when a ligand (signaling molecule) binds to them. This binding causes a conformational change in the channel protein, allowing specific ions to pass through the membrane by changing its permeability. For example, neurotransmitters like acetylcholine can bind to ligand-gated ion channels and open the pore, allowing cations of sodium, calcium, and potassium to pass through.

User Johnatasjmo
by
8.3k points
Welcome to QAmmunity.org, where you can ask questions and receive answers from other members of our community.