Refer to the Figure Below

question 45

Multiple Choice

Refer to the figure below. A biologist identifies a new signal transduction pathway in mouse cells that are stimulated by the compound L-alanine, represented above.Which statement makes a reasonable prediction about how D-alanine will interact with this pathway, and why?

• A) D-alanine will bind to the receptor and stimulate the signal transduction pathway because it has the same chemical formula as L-alanine.
• B) D-alanine will bind to the receptor and stimulate the signal transduction pathway because it has the same overall molecular shape as L-alanine.
• C) D-alanine will bind to the receptor but will not stimulate the signal transduction pathway because it is similar, but not identical, to L-alanine.
• D) D-alanine will not bind to the receptor because it does not have the correct orientation of functional groups to match up with the receptor site.
• E) D-alanine will not bind to the receptor because it does not have the same functional groups as L-alanine.

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Definitions:

Synapses

Junctions between two nerve cells, where impulses pass by diffusion of neurotransmitters.

Acid/Base Properties

Characteristics of substances based on their ability to donate protons (acids) or accept protons (bases), influencing their chemical reactions.

Tardive Dyskinesia

A nervous system disorder defined by uncontrollable, repeated bodily motions, frequently due to extended consumption of specific mental health drugs.

Schizophrenia

A mental health anomaly characterized by alterations in cognitive functions, sense perceptions, emotional states, and social engagements.