Question

Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disease in humans in which the CFTR protein, which functions as a chloride ion channel, is missing or nonfunctional in cell membranes.

The CFTR protein belongs to what category of membrane proteins?
A) gap junctions
B) aquaporins
C) electrogenic ion pumps
D) cotransporters
E) hydrophilic channels

Answer 1

The CFTR protein is a hydrophilic channel integral to the cell membrane, responsible for transporting chloride ions. Its malfunction due to genetic mutations causes cystic fibrosis, leading to symptoms such as thick mucus and respiratory infections.

Step-by-step explanation:

The cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) protein is an example of an integral membrane protein that functions primarily as an ion channel, particularly for chloride ions (Cl-). CFTR facilitates the transport of Cl- out of the cells, making it fall under the category of hydrophilic channels. Therefore, the correct answer to the question is E) hydrophilic channels. In individuals with cystic fibrosis, mutations in the CFTR gene lead to the production of a defective channel protein, often resulting in its degradation instead of being incorporated into the cell membrane. This deficiency in CFTR function leads to the various symptoms associated with cystic fibrosis, such as thick mucus secretion and recurrent respiratory infections.

Answer 2

The correct answer is - option C. electrogenic ion pumps

Step-by-step explanation:

The CFTR protein which acts as the chloride ion Channel this Chanel is belongs to the Electrogenic pumps. These are also is categorize as the ABC Protein channel.

Electrogenic pumps are primary active transporters that hydrolyzes the ATP and the produced energy is used to transfer ions (cl ion in this case) across the membrane to generate the gradient across the membranes.

Thus, the correct answer is - option C. electrogenic ion pumps.