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Multiple Choice
Phosphatase enzymes in signal transduction pathways function primarily to:
A
Add phosphate groups to proteins
B
Hydrolyze peptide bonds in proteins
C
Remove phosphate groups from proteins
D
Transfer methyl groups to DNA
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the role of phosphatase enzymes: Phosphatases are enzymes that catalyze the removal of phosphate groups from molecules, typically proteins, through hydrolysis. This process is crucial in regulating signal transduction pathways.
Differentiate phosphatases from kinases: Kinases are enzymes that add phosphate groups to proteins, while phosphatases remove them. This distinction is important for understanding their opposing roles in cellular signaling.
Analyze the options provided: Evaluate each option based on the known function of phosphatases. For example, adding phosphate groups is the role of kinases, not phosphatases. Hydrolyzing peptide bonds is unrelated to phosphate group removal, and transferring methyl groups to DNA is a function of methyltransferases, not phosphatases.
Focus on the correct function: Phosphatases specifically remove phosphate groups from proteins, which can deactivate or alter the activity of the protein in signal transduction pathways.
Conclude the correct answer: Based on the analysis, the correct answer is 'Remove phosphate groups from proteins,' as this aligns with the established biochemical role of phosphatase enzymes.