Question

MscS and MscL are mechanosensitive channels that ...

A. constitute the majority of channel proteins in the plasma membrane of auditory hair cells in the human cochlea.
B. open in response to membrane tension.
C. open at the same osmotic pressure, but differ in their ion selectivity.
D. are highly ion selective.
E. All of the above.

Answer 1

The mechanosensitive channels, MscS and MscL, open in response to membrane tension and are highly ion selective.The correct answer is option E.

Step-by-step explanation:

The mechanosensitive channels, MscS and MscL, are gated ion channels that open in response to mechanical deformation of the plasma membrane. When pressure or tension causes the extracellular matrix to move, these channels open, allowing ions to enter or exit the cell.

The statement (A) is incorrect as MscS and MscL do not constitute the majority of channel proteins in the plasma membrane of auditory hair cells in the human cochlea. The statement (B) is correct as these channels open in response to membrane tension.

The statement (C) is incorrect as MscS and MscL differ in their osmotic pressure at which they open. The statement (D) is correct as these channels are highly ion selective, allowing specific ions to pass through.

Therefore, the correct answer is (E) All of the above, as statements (B) and (D) are both true.