Question

How are proteins transported to their correct location in the cell?

A. Every protein will have a nucleic acid attached to it that tells the cell in which compartment it will be used.
B. The cell always synthesizes a protein in the compartment in which it will be used.
C.Proteins contain molecular ""zip codes"" that allow them to be shipped to the correct cellular compartment.
D. The cell sends the proteins to the cellular compartment that currently has the least amount of proteins in it."

Answer 1

Proteins are directed to their correct cellular locations by molecular 'zip codes' within their structure, which are recognized by the cellular trafficking machinery after their synthesis at ribosomes and modification within the Golgi apparatus.

Step-by-step explanation:

Proteins are transported to their correct location in cells by means of molecular "zip codes" or signals contained within the protein itself. These are oligopeptide sequences that act as traffic signals, directing the protein to its appropriate destination. The process starts with the synthesis of the protein at ribosomes in the cytoplasm or on the rough endoplasmic reticulum (RER). Once synthesized, proteins are often modified in the Golgi apparatus and then packaged into vesicles that are targeted to different compartments of the cell or even to be secreted out of the cell. Structural proteins, enzymes, and other proteins are thus directed by these signals, ensuring the proper functioning and distribution of proteins within the cell and in the extracellular environment.