Multiple Choice
Which of the following best describes the process of signal amplification in a cell signaling pathway?
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10. Cell Signaling
Signal Amplification
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In liver cells, epinephrine stimulates the breakdown of glycogen. As the signal-transduction pathway progresses, __________.
A
the signal is reduced
B
the number of molecules involved decreases
C
the number of molecules involved remains constant
D
glycogen synthesis is stimulated
E
the signal is amplified
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the role of epinephrine: Epinephrine is a hormone that triggers the breakdown of glycogen into glucose in liver cells, providing energy for the body during stress or 'fight or flight' situations.
Identify the process: The breakdown of glycogen is part of a signal-transduction pathway, which involves a series of molecular events initiated by the binding of epinephrine to its receptor on the liver cell surface.
Recognize the concept of signal amplification: In signal-transduction pathways, the initial signal (epinephrine binding) is often amplified. This means that one molecule of epinephrine can lead to the activation of many molecules of the next component in the pathway, resulting in a large-scale response.
Consider the cascade effect: As the pathway progresses, each step can activate multiple molecules of the next step, leading to an exponential increase in the number of active molecules, which is characteristic of signal amplification.
Conclude with the correct choice: Given the nature of signal-transduction pathways and the role of epinephrine, the correct answer is that the signal is amplified, leading to an increased breakdown of glycogen.
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