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Multiple Choice
An actin filament undergoing treadmilling at the leading edge of a lamellipodium can do which of the following?
A
Add actin monomers at the plus end while losing monomers at the minus end, resulting in a net movement of the filament
B
Shorten at the plus end and lengthen at the minus end
C
Remain completely stationary with no addition or loss of actin monomers
D
Grow at both ends simultaneously without any loss of monomers
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of actin filament treadmilling: Treadmilling is a dynamic process where actin filaments maintain a steady-state length by adding actin monomers at one end (the plus end) and losing them at the other end (the minus end). This results in a net movement of the filament without a change in its overall length.
Analyze the first option: 'Add actin monomers at the plus end while losing monomers at the minus end, resulting in a net movement of the filament.' This description matches the definition of treadmilling, as it involves simultaneous addition and loss of monomers at opposite ends.
Evaluate the second option: 'Shorten at the plus end and lengthen at the minus end.' This does not align with the treadmilling process, as the plus end is where monomers are added, not removed.
Evaluate the third option: 'Remain completely stationary with no addition or loss of actin monomers.' This contradicts the dynamic nature of treadmilling, which involves continuous addition and loss of monomers.
Evaluate the fourth option: 'Grow at both ends simultaneously without any loss of monomers.' This is incorrect because treadmilling involves a balance of addition at the plus end and loss at the minus end, not simultaneous growth at both ends.