Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video
Multiple Choice
Which of the following statements correctly describes a component involved in cell signaling?
A
Mitochondria are primarily responsible for synthesizing signaling molecules in the nucleus.
B
Ribosomes act as receptors that detect extracellular signals.
C
Ligands are molecules that bind to specific receptors on the cell surface to initiate a signaling cascade.
D
The Golgi apparatus directly transmits electrical signals across the plasma membrane.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Understand the context of cell signaling. Cell signaling is the process by which cells communicate with each other to coordinate their functions. This involves signaling molecules (ligands), receptors, and a signaling cascade that leads to a cellular response.
Step 2: Analyze the first statement: 'Mitochondria are primarily responsible for synthesizing signaling molecules in the nucleus.' Mitochondria are primarily involved in energy production (ATP synthesis) and not in synthesizing signaling molecules. This statement is incorrect.
Step 3: Analyze the second statement: 'Ribosomes act as receptors that detect extracellular signals.' Ribosomes are responsible for protein synthesis and are not involved in detecting extracellular signals. This statement is also incorrect.
Step 4: Analyze the third statement: 'Ligands are molecules that bind to specific receptors on the cell surface to initiate a signaling cascade.' Ligands are indeed signaling molecules that bind to receptors, triggering a series of intracellular events (a signaling cascade). This statement is correct.
Step 5: Analyze the fourth statement: 'The Golgi apparatus directly transmits electrical signals across the plasma membrane.' The Golgi apparatus is involved in modifying, sorting, and packaging proteins and lipids for secretion or use within the cell. It does not transmit electrical signals. This statement is incorrect.