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Multiple Choice
If a toxic chemical destroys the ribosomes in a eukaryotic cell, which cellular activity would be affected first?
A
Lipid synthesis
B
ATP production in mitochondria
C
DNA replication
D
Protein synthesis
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the role of ribosomes in a eukaryotic cell: Ribosomes are responsible for protein synthesis, translating messenger RNA (mRNA) into polypeptide chains.
Recognize that protein synthesis is essential for many cellular functions, including enzyme production, structural proteins, and signaling molecules.
Analyze the options provided: Lipid synthesis, ATP production in mitochondria, and DNA replication all require specific proteins (enzymes) to proceed efficiently.
Determine the immediate impact of ribosome destruction: Without ribosomes, the cell cannot produce proteins, which directly halts protein synthesis.
Conclude that protein synthesis is the cellular activity affected first because ribosomes are directly responsible for this process, and their destruction prevents the translation of mRNA into functional proteins.