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What would be observed if (A) adaptins, (B) clathrin, and (C) dynamin were omitted from membrane preparation of a clathrin-coated vesicle? (D) What would be observed if the plasma membrane fragments were from a prokaryotic cell?

User Dmohr
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Final answer:

If adaptins, clathrin, or dynamin were omitted during clathrin-coated vesicle formation, the selection and formation of vesicles would be impeded, and vesicle detachment from the membrane would not occur. For a prokaryotic cell, no clathrin-mediated endocytosis would be observed since prokaryotes lack this machinery.

Step-by-step explanation:

The process of clathrin-mediated endocytosis is crucial for a cell to internalize substances from its exterior. Let's explore what would be observed if certain proteins were omitted from the membrane preparation of a clathrin-coated vesicle:

  • If adaptins are omitted, the selection of cargo that usually binds to the adaptins will not occur, preventing the inclusion of specific molecules into the forming vesicle.
  • Without clathrin, the membrane would not form the characteristic coated pits, leading to a failure in vesicle formation as clathrin is essential for the structure and shape of the vesicle.
  • In the absence of dynamin, vesicles would not be able to pinch off from the membrane, as dynamin is responsible for the scission of the vesicle from the plasma membrane.
  • When preparing vesicles from a prokaryotic cell's plasma membrane, clathrin-mediated endocytosis would not be observed because prokaryotic cells lack this pathway altogether, and clathrin is not found in prokaryotes.

For a student inquiry regarding endocytosis in phagocytosis, it is explained that clathrin stabilizes the inward-facing surface of the plasma membrane and aids in the invagination process to engulf particles. Following enclosure and internalization, clathrin disengages, and the internalized vesicle merges with lysosomes for degradation of its contents.

User Woodscreative
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