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Multiple Choice
Which group of proteins are opioid receptors classified as?
A
Ligand-gated ion channels
B
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs)
C
Receptor tyrosine kinases
D
Nuclear hormone receptors
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Begin by understanding the classification of proteins based on their function and structure. Proteins can be grouped into categories such as ligand-gated ion channels, G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), receptor tyrosine kinases, and nuclear hormone receptors.
Step 2: Review the characteristics of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). GPCRs are a large family of membrane proteins that transmit signals inside the cell by interacting with G proteins. They are involved in various physiological processes, including sensory perception and neurotransmission.
Step 3: Examine the role of opioid receptors. Opioid receptors are proteins found in the nervous system that bind to opioid molecules (like endorphins or drugs such as morphine) to mediate pain relief and other effects. They are integral membrane proteins that signal through G proteins.
Step 4: Compare opioid receptors to the other protein groups listed in the problem. Ligand-gated ion channels directly mediate ion flow across membranes, receptor tyrosine kinases are involved in phosphorylation signaling, and nuclear hormone receptors act as transcription factors in the nucleus. Opioid receptors do not fit these categories.
Step 5: Conclude that opioid receptors are classified as G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) based on their signaling mechanism and structural characteristics.