Multiple Choice
Which of the following components are found in the phospholipids of plasma membranes?
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6. The Membrane
Biological Membranes
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The hydrophilic regions of a membrane protein are most likely to be found:
A
within the nucleolus of the cell
B
embedded within the hydrophobic core of the lipid bilayer
C
attached to fatty acid tails of phospholipids
D
on the exterior surfaces of the membrane, exposed to the aqueous environment
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the structure of a membrane protein: Membrane proteins have regions that interact with different environments. Hydrophilic regions are water-loving and interact with aqueous environments, while hydrophobic regions are water-fearing and interact with the lipid bilayer's hydrophobic core.
Recall the structure of the lipid bilayer: The lipid bilayer consists of phospholipids with hydrophilic (polar) heads facing outward toward the aqueous environment and hydrophobic (nonpolar) tails facing inward, forming the bilayer's core.
Identify the location of hydrophilic regions: Hydrophilic regions of membrane proteins are typically found on the exterior surfaces of the membrane, where they can interact with the aqueous environment inside and outside the cell.
Eliminate incorrect options: Hydrophilic regions are not found within the nucleolus (a structure inside the nucleus), embedded within the hydrophobic core of the lipid bilayer, or attached to fatty acid tails of phospholipids, as these environments are not aqueous.
Conclude the correct answer: Hydrophilic regions of a membrane protein are most likely to be found on the exterior surfaces of the membrane, exposed to the aqueous environment.
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