The inhibitor would be designed to interfere with the active transport of molecule B, hindering its movement across the membrane.
Based on the observed transport rates, it appears that molecule A is likely transported via facilitated diffusion, while molecule B is likely transported via active transport.
Facilitated diffusion is a passive process that relies on the concentration gradient, allowing molecules to move across a membrane through protein channels or carriers.
This method is usually employed for the transport of hydrophilic or large molecules that cannot readily diffuse through the lipid bilayer.
Molecule A, exhibiting a transport pattern consistent with facilitated diffusion, suggests that it may be a hydrophilic or larger molecule.
On the other hand, active transport involves the movement of molecules against their concentration gradient, requiring energy in the form of ATP.
This process is often employed to transport ions or larger molecules against a concentration gradient.
Molecule B, displaying a transport profile indicative of active transport, suggests that it may be a smaller molecule or an ion.
To design an inhibitor that effectively blocks transport, it would be more pertinent to target the active transport mechanism associated with molecule B.
Active transport is typically more susceptible to inhibition, as it relies on specific carrier proteins and energy input.
Therefore, the inhibitor would be designed to interfere with the active transport of molecule B, hindering its movement across the membrane.